Wells
Wells consist of deep holes lined with dry stone, built to draw subterranean waters, and their related mechanisms. In this area, they were usually found in small gardens and designed for domestic use.
Their cylindrical shape suited the mechanical operation designed to draw water.
A wheel was used, which turned on an axle that set on the well’s walls. A mule or a donkey circled the well, causing the cogs to move and the wheel to turn.
A length of esparto rope or “samia” extended from the wheel down to the surface of the water below. Ceramic vessels, called “cadufos”, were attached to the rope and filled with water when lowered into the well and then emptied it into a basin when raised to the top.
The elements used with these wells are interesting. They include basins and sinks, which were hollowed stones designed to hold water; the circular wall built around the well that gave it more height; the conduits made from carved stone; the tanks for storing the water; etc.