Did you know that this old watermill is named Molino de Pérez? It stands as a testament to Montevideo’s rich history. The Molino de Pérez began its story between 1780 and 1790. Initially, it was a simple ground floor structure built with visible stones.
Juan María Pérez acquired it in 1835. He was a former constituent and a successful businessman. Pérez expanded the building. He added masonry to the upper part. He transformed it into a hydraulic mill. The mill harnessed the power of a local stream. Over time, this stream became known as Del Molino. It flowed into the Parque Rivera lake. The stream’s consistent flow enabled the mill to function effectively.
By 1840, the Molino de Pérez was milling wheat. Pérez cultivated wheat on forty blocks of his property. The brick and stone building had two floors. The ground floor housed the milling area, granaries and storage. The second floor served as Pérez’s residence. After his death in 1845, José Acossano managed the mill.
The Molino de Pérez operated until 1895. A storm caused significant flooding. The stream surged and damaged the wheel’s mechanism. Although the watermill ceased operation, its natural setting attracted visitors.
In the 1950s, the Municipality of Montevideo started restoration. Horacio Arredondo was assigned to reconstruct the wheel. The restoration was based on a similar mill in Abra del Perdomo. The Molino de Pérez features a canal and a wooden bucket wheel. The original stone grinding wheels remain.
The Molino de Pérez then housed different ventures. It was home to the Julio Herrera y Reissig municipal library. It also hosted the Pedro Figari Museum. The Association of Painters and Sculptors of Uruguay APEU and the Museum of Alimentation MUVA also occupied it.
The Molino de Pérez is a National Historical Monument. It is protected by the Special Permanent Commission of Carrasco and Punta Gorda. The mill is located in Parque Baroffio. It lies at the foot of the Punta Gorda cliffs. It faces Playa Honda.
Imagine this area in the 1840s. Juan María Pérez lived here blind in his final years. He oversaw his milling operation. He likely enjoyed the peaceful sounds of the stream. The Molino de Pérez connects us to that time.
The building stands as the only example of its kind in Montevideo. It represents a blend of industry and nature. The stream still flows serenely. The shade of the willows invites rest and reflection. The Molino de Pérez offers an alternative to the usual rambla and beach stroll. It provides a unique glimpse into Montevideo’s past.
Today the Molino de Pérez is managed by the Municipality of Montevideo. In March 2023 the space reopened with a renewed cultural focus. It hosts photographic exhibitions. It also hosts musical events like Late Molino Pérez. The Molino de Pérez is open to visitors. It offers a chance to explore its history and architecture. Take a moment to appreciate this historical treasure.