114 Waidmühle in Pferdingsleben
114 Waidmühle in Pferdingsleben
There is only one indigo mill in Central Europe that remains in its original condition at its original location, in Pferdingsleben.
On a circular threshing floor made of stone slabs (3.60 meters in diameter), a vertical millstone with a toothed grinding surface (1.65 meters in diameter and 0.48 meters thick) was driven by horses in a capstan-like manner.
Wilted woad leaves were crushed into a paste, which was then formed into fist-sized woad balls and sold at markets in the city.
After a multi-week fermentation process, drying, and sieving, the finished woad pigment powder (Indigo) was obtained.
Woad was the most important dye plant in medieval Europe and shaped the economic life of Thuringia from the 13th to the 16th century.
Due to its strong dyeing power, it was highly sought after and, thanks to Thuringia’s favorable location, was shipped in all directions.
Various colors like black, blue, brown, and green could be produced in different intensities.
By the end of the 16th century, the price of woad began to drop as indigo dye could be produced more cheaply, for example, in India.
Further Information:
VG „Nesseaue“
Dr.-Külz-Str. 4
99869 Friemar
Tel.: +49 36258 / 535-0
Fax: +49 36258 / 535-30