Windmills
Besides tulips, cheese, and clogs, the Netherlands also has ''de molen'' (mill) as one of its national symbols. Why?
De molen
When people say the Netherlands, people often think: windmills. That is because of their great significance to the Netherlands throughout its history.
Windmills were important for the Netherlands because they were continuously used to drain water in order to keep the land dry. But they were also widely used for grinding grains and spices.
Additionally, sawmills were also significant for building wooden ships on an industrial level.
The National Windmill Days
On May 11th and 12th, the National Windmill Days take place and that means that many windmills open their doors to the public. In Leiden, for example, you can visit Molen de Valk and Molen de Put, but also in Leiderdorp, various millers will participate in the Windmill Days.
Regional Windmills
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Windmill de Valk (Falcon) is the only remaining mill house in the Netherlands and belongs to the 13 museums of Leiden.
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Windmill de Put (Well) was rebuilt in 1987 and stands on a bulwark next to the Morspoort on the border of the old city centre.
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This mill, nowadays referred to as the ''Barremolen'' - named after the ''polder'' it drained - was built in 1661. For many years, the mill has been located on land owned by Heineken Breweries BV, which since 1971 has become its owner.
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The Munnikenmolen is a post mill located on the outskirts of the town of Leiderdorp, along the Dwarswatering. The mill was built in 1890 for the purpose of draining the Munnikenpolder as a replacement for a mill that burned down that year.
More of the Region
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Mills & More Route
Mills & More Route
The ‘Mills & More’ cycle route takes you past no less than 20 windmills and other beautiful sights in and around Kaag and Braassem.
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Discover the Leiden Region
Discover the Leiden Region
The Leiden Region is full of surprises. Why not discover them?
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May in the Leiden Region
May in the Leiden Region
May is a great time to visit the region and experience its vibrant culture and natural beauty.