The name is Għar il-Ġobon (in Maltese), sometimes anglicised “Ghar il-Gobon.”
It is one of several historic windmills in Birkirkara, Malta:
📍 Location
35.903480, 14.466336Construction & Early History
The windmill was built in the late 17th century during the rule of Grand Master Gregorio Carafa (who was Grand Master from 1680-1690).
Approximate date is around c. 1685 based on sources listing its construction circa that year.
Use & Changes Over Time
The windmill remained in use until the 1930s.
After ceasing operation, its sails were removed.
The building was then converted into a house (residence).
Heritage & Restoration Proposals
The windmill is listed as a Grade 1 structure, which gives it the highest protection under Maltese heritage laws.
There is/was a proposal (as of 2024) by a private developer to restore the windmill’s sails, restore the façade, plus extension of a restaurant instead of some modern additions.
Architectural / Structural Details
There is less detail in the sources about the precise form of construction (e.g. masonry type, internal mechanisms) compared to some other windmills (like Ta’ Ganu).
It is known to be a tower-mill (a cylindrical tower) which is typical for many Maltese windmills.
Given its era, it likely included the usual external sails (vanes/antennae) which caught the wind to rotate mechanisms inside, but after its period of use, these were removed.
Significance
As a 17th-century windmill, it forms part of the older generation of Maltese windmills, which reflect the spread of wind-powered milling in the period of the Knights of St John.
Because it has survived (though converted into a residence), and as a Grade 1 listed building, it is important for heritage and cultural identity in Birkirkara.
