This device is made of iroko wood and used for manoeuvres that need lots of force, such as raising the anchors, which weigh 300 and 150 kg respectively, or some sails.
The original schooner, Carmen Flores, had a manual one, whereas the Santa Eulalia has added a mechanical one. This windlass has a hydraulic engine which allows it to lift 1,000 kg.
It has a blocking system which stops the rope it is winding from escaping, ensuring safety.
It has the same use as a winch, although the latter has a vertical axis whereas the windlass has a horizontal one.