Belpiano Ra Pria Mill
“Ra Pria” Mill: The Grain Tower of Belpiano
In the heart of Belpiano stands the “Ra Pria” Mill, one of the best-preserved examples of a tower mill, or turbine mill. Since the 18th century, this structure has stood out for its unconventional technical solutions: instead of the classic vertical wheel, it uses a horizontal water wheel, able to drive the millstone with less water while still grinding cereals into high-quality flour.
History and Revival
The mill was renovated at the beginning of the 19th century and then abandoned after World War II, until it was rediscovered and restored thanks to the historical passion of Maria Grazia Sbarboro and Mario Costa. Since 2010, the mill has been open to visitors and every year hosts a distinctive artistic nativity scene during the Christmas season, turning history into a living experience for the community and tourists.
Recognition and Cultural Value
The structure has been recognized by the Ministry of Culture as having particularly important cultural value. The “Ra Pria” Mill has received prestigious awards, including one at the Abbazia della Cervara in 2018 for Landscape Architecture and another in Revere (MN) from the Italian Association of Historic Mills, confirming its role as a symbol of rural ingenuity and historical preservation.
Sources
Sbarboro M.G., Costa M., “Pennellate sparpagliate. Poesie, immagini, racconti”, Ed. Tigulliana, Rapallo, 2024;
https://www.belpiano.it/;
https://biotigullio5terre.it/il-mulino-di-ra-pria-belpiano/;
https://museionline.info/tipologie-museo/mulino-di-belpiano-ra-pria
Trekking and cycling routes that may interest you
Itineraries of different durations and suitable for every taste and level of preparation, to discover the most beautiful and evocative places and panoramas of the Ligurian Tigullio.
Local experiences that might interest you
Let yourself be guided and be surprised by the hidden treasures that the Ligurian Tigullio area is capable of offering you in every season.
Sport
Hiking routes, climbing, mountain biking and much more… Choose the sport in contact with nature that’s right for you!
Culture
Shows, Theatre, Music, Food and Wine, Reading… Experience the cultural and artistic proposals, immersed in the Ligurian landscape.
Nature
Geology, bird watching, nature engineering and other initiatives, to cultivate awareness and responsibility for environmental issues.
More heritage that may interest you
Catalog of the tangible and intangible heritage, a precious resource of the Tigullio for community building and local development.
Join us!
Preserve the history and traditions of the Ligurian Tigullio area and keep them alive for future generations.