Watermolen

The Watermolen is a historic watermill located in Overijse, Belgium.

History

• The Watermolen features an undershot wheel, a type of millwheel commonly used in watermills during this period.
• The building's architecture is typical of traditional Flemish mills, with a rectangular body and a sloping roof.
• The exterior walls are constructed from local stone, while the interior features wooden beams and a wooden floor.

The Watermolen was originally built to power a grain mill, grinding wheat into flour for local bakeries.

Original Purpose

The Watermolen is currently in working condition, operated by ecopower.be.

Current Status and Use

• The Watermolen has been restored to its original function as a watermill, with the addition of modern machinery to improve efficiency.

The Watermolen is situated on Molendreef, near the town center of Overijse.

Location and Setting

• The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and farmland, with the nearby River Dijver providing a source of water for the mill.

The Watermolen has been listed as a heritage site by OnroerendErfgoed, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

• Efforts have been made to preserve the mill's original architecture and machinery, with regular maintenance and restoration work carried out by ecopower.be.

Visitors can view the Watermolen by appointment, contacting ecopower.be for more information.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

The Watermolen features one undershot wheel, powered by water from the nearby River Dijver.

Technical Details

• The grinding stones are made of local limestone, and the machinery has been modernized to improve efficiency while maintaining its traditional character.