Windmills at Tripodes (Vivlos)

The three traditional windmills are nestled on a small hill at the entrance of the village Tripodes, also known as Vivlos. Built in the 19th century, alongside the windmill of Skarkos and the ruined windmills of Stroumpoulas, they all are a distinct form of Cycladic architecture and are intimately related to the history and economic development of the village. They are cylindrical, two-storey buildings that used the wind power to mill wheat and produce flour in the pre-industrial age. They had two floors, connected with an internal wooden staircase. The axis, the motion transmission mechanism and the millstones were on the top floor, while the ground floor served as a storage area. The wings were equipped with canvas, measured more than 5m in length and one-fifth of that in width.

The three old windmills are the landmark of the village but unfortunately, they need to go under some reconstruction. The spot offers superb views of the sea and the island of Paros, and is ideal for enjoying beautiful sunsets.