The ancient mills

The mills of Asciano, spread mainly along the Bestina stream, formed an ingenious and well-organized system that harnessed hydraulic energy to grind grain and, in the Middle Ages, even to process metals. Historical documents suggest that about 12 mills once existed here. Remnants of some of these mills, as well as parts of their infrastructure (canals and dams), are still visible today, bearing witness to the activities of the past.

The mills of Asciano, arranged almost in an embracing arc around the town, formed a cleverly designed and well-organized complex. Walking along this route, one can still spot some of the old mills—now transformed into private homes—and the remains of canals and dams skillfully constructed to regulate the water flow from the La Bestina stream, ensuring a constant and precise operation.

Ready to cross La Bestina and see the remnants of a “dam”? The dam served to control the water flow, creating a reserve or an increase in pressure to feed the mill’s blades with sufficient force to turn and operate, for example, the millstone. Essentially, it’s a barrier that diverts or retains the water flow, accumulating it in a basin. When needed, water would then be released through a conduit or gate to flow powerfully into the mills.