I came across this ancient water wheel by chance as I traveled through the old town of Salzburg. The wheel is still functional and is used these days, to generate emergency electricity to parts of the city in times of need.
I spotted this unidentified statue standing guard over the water wheel and I couldn't resist a shot.
There is an informative sign about the water wheel printed in German, English and Italian.
and here's an enlarged information in English. I also did some research and found out that the water mill was considered to be the oldest canal system of Central Europe and probably dated back to the 8th century. The modern construction of the Alm canal started in 1137, by using materials from the Roman ruins that originated from Iuvavum, the Roman city at the site of modern Salzburg.
Along the side of the building, there's a bakery and as the water wheel rotates, the energy is generated into the bakery's wood ovens.
A photo exhibit in German, was displayed at the building basement, explaining how the wheel works, people's involvement in the local community with hands-on learning experience.
Watching that big wheel spin was the most fascinating sight to watch. I am glad that this valuable piece of history was saved for the benefit of future generations.
That's My World
A very interesting, informative post, Life Ramblings.
ReplyDeleteVery nice and interestings photos and report!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this beautiful trip!
Many greetings and kisses
That's a huge, antique water wheel alright! ;D
ReplyDeleteOuh it is used to generate electricity? Is it doable? I mean...it looks slow. Ha :D
ReplyDeleteHow come the statue is holding a crucified figure? :|
ReplyDeleteInteresting display and beautiful photos! :)
ReplyDeleteFantastic photos, i especially like the last photo showing the phrases of construction of the water wheel which is also environmentally friendly most important these days :-).
ReplyDeleteSome fantastic pictures. I like visiting old part of cities too.
ReplyDeleteCruise Pictures
Tekkaus,
ReplyDeleteyup, the water mill does rotates slowly but with lots of torque and it works efficiently. I've no idea about the statue holding the crucified figure but there must be a good story behind it.
Like that water wheel; could do with one in our neighbourhood too :-)
ReplyDeletethose things we stumbled upon on our travels out of pure coincidence are truly special.
ReplyDeletethis is so interesting!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great place! Love that wheel.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shots. I am glad it has been preserved.
ReplyDeleteAn interesting world you have. Like it! Thanks for sharing
ReplyDeleteLove the water wheel! I saw lots of water wheels in Guilin! : )
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome old waterwheel, and it's fascinating that they've fitted it with modern technology. Nice shot!
ReplyDeleteI enlarged the photo exhibit photo (the last one). Staring at this kind of collection is always a good experience.
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