Puntos de Interés
Culture
Water Museum
The old mill known as 'de Enmedio' is situated on the banks of the Duero River, in the heart of the Paseo de San Prudencio, between the Medieval Stone Bridge and the Railway Bridge. Together with the mills 'el Primero' and 'de Abajo', it was one of the three water mills that, for centuries in Soria, took advantage of the power of the current to grind grain and transform it into flour. In fact, the Enmedio mill was the largest of the three, with six water wheels that transmitted the mechanical energy to the machinery of the structure.
The Enmedio mill was owned by the Counts of Gómara, who used the mill for their own economic benefit, along with many other properties in the city. However, the water was not only used for milling purposes, but also returned to the river via a return channel. This channel led to the last public washing place in the city, which was located until 1914. At that time, the mill underwent a remodelling process, and hydraulic pumps were installed to raise the water from the Duero to the reservoirs built on the Cerro del Castillo. This water then flowed down to supply the fountains and houses of Soria. The mill fulfilled its new purpose until 1985, after which it was not until 2006 that it was again restored and converted into the Water Museum, which is its current purpose.
The Water Museum offers a comprehensive exhibition on the uses and history of water, with a particular focus on the relationship between the Duero and the people of Soria. As an historic mill, the original 20th-century machinery is on display for the public to see, supported by panels and audiovisuals that demonstrate the different uses it has had throughout the city's history. The hall also plays host to the exhibition "Uses of the Duero", which presents a selection of images showcasing various buildings, locations and historical moments in Soria during the 20th century. Most of the photographs have been sourced from the Provincial Historical Archive, with accompanying written commentaries providing details on their location, history and a few other noteworthy aspects.
The building is situated at the beginning of the Senda de los Pescadores, which is the venue for the Enclave of Water Festival during the last weekend of July. Admission is free, but advance booking is required. Please contact Biosfera Soria to make a booking.