European Day of Historic Mills

A Water Mill Comes Back to Life

Every spring, the Mulino Borgo Lentino, in the hamlet of Lentino in Nibbiano, in the Municipality of Alta Val Tidone (province of Piacenza, Emilia-Romagna), opens its doors for the European Day of Historic Mills. The initiative is part of a continental network that promotes the heritage of water and wind mills, witnesses to an era when the force of water powered the economy of the Apennine valleys.

For one day, the ancient mill truly returns to grinding: the mill museum is open for free guided tours, and visitors can witness the demonstration of cereal grinding with millstones, discovering up close how flour was produced before industrialization.

Ancient Crafts and Live Demonstrations

The day is a journey through the crafts of the past. Along the village, demonstrations of traditional blacksmithing, with the creation of Damascus steel blades and wrought iron, alternate with demonstrations of copperplate printing by a local engraver and painter. There is also an exhibition of ancient cereals and small wooden mills, scale models, and archery practice offered by a group of local archers.

The Flavors of Val Tidone

Alongside the ancient crafts, there is all the taste of the valley. Volunteers offer tastings of Batarò De.C.O., the traditional baked product of these hills, throughout the day, along with Piacenza DOP cured meats, Colli DOC wines, handmade extruded pasta, and other local products. Food and craft stalls complete the offering, in a village festival atmosphere designed for families and hikers.

An Event for Slow Tourism

The event is organized by the Associazione La Strada dei Mulini (The Road of Mills Association), with the patronage of the Municipality of Alta Val Tidone and local authorities. It is a perfect event for those who love slow tourism and want to discover an authentic corner of the Piacenza Apennines, with its trails, rural villages, and traditions that endure over time.