Molino de Tefía

Centuries-old gofio making tradition

The Tefía Mill is located in the municipality of Puerto del Rosario, in the dry, open landscape of Majorero. It is one of the 23 mills declared as an Asset of Cultural Interest in Fuerteventura. A visit to a mill is a great way to learn about the economy of the island in past centuries. Since the arrival of the conquerors in the 15th century to well into the twentieth century, the mills ground grain to make gofio (or Canarian flour) for the local people, with the mill owner taking a share of the profits. Nearby, the Ecomuseum of La Alcogida has typical Fuerteventura architecture and showcases the traditional crafts of the island.

Evolution of the grinding process

The “molino” windmills of the Canary Islands, such as those in Fuerteventura, were imported by the European population after the conquest of the islands. By using the force of the wind for grinding, the mills represent a dramatic step beyond previous methods, such as animal-drawn mills, or the aboriginal hand mills. (A further step in the evolution of the grinding process took place with the invention of “molina” windmills in La Palma. These contraptions were special because they could be dismantled and moved around.)

Parking

Tefía

Sustainability

- Do not take photos using the flash. They could damage items of artistic and cultural value.
- Use the waste- paper baskets and, insofar as possible, separate and place your recycling waste in the appropriate containers. Do not eat inside exhibition rooms.
- Try to be careful with your rucksack or bag and make sure you do not hit anything when you move.
- Try to be silent or speak quietly so that you do not bother other visitors.