Maltezovo kolo / Maltese's Watermill

Maltezovo kolo, or the Maltese’s Watermill, is one of Trebinje’s most charming historic structures, set along the quiet banks of the Trebišnjica River. Built in the 19th century, it served both as a mill and a gathering point for local families who relied on the river’s steady flow for daily life. Its name comes from a local miller nicknamed “the Maltese,” remembered for his skill and hospitality. Inside, the watermill preserves its original rustic character. The wooden mechanism, though no longer active, clearly shows how the mill once operated: a horizontal waterwheel powered the grinding stones, allowing villagers to process grain throughout the year. The stone walls are thick and cool, and the interior still carries the earthy scent of old timber and river moisture. One of the most interesting details is the mill’s position beside a calm bend of the Trebišnjica, where the water was diverted through a narrow channel to increase pressure. Visitors can also see remnants of the old sluice system outside, a simple but clever engineering solution that kept the mill running even during dry seasons.