Windlust

Windlust, meaning "love of wind" in Dutch, is a tower mill located in Goudswaard, South Holland, Netherlands.

History

The mill was constructed in 1694 and has been an integral part of the region's agricultural heritage for centuries.
The grinding stones are believed to have been made of limestone and date back to the 18th century.

Architecture

The Windlust is a classic example of a Dutch tower mill, characterized by its distinctive round stone tower with a square base.

The mill features six wooden sails, which were originally powered by wind to grind grain into flour.

Location

The Windlust is situated on Molendijk 53B in Goudswaard, a small town located approximately 15 kilometers north of Rotterdam.

The mill stands near the confluence of the Nieuwe Maas and the Oude Maas rivers, which provided a reliable source of water for milling.

Current Status

The Windlust is currently a working museum, open to the public for guided tours and demonstrations of its milling capabilities.

Visitors can explore the mill's interior and learn about its history and significance in Dutch milling traditions.

Heritage Status

As a protected monument, the Windlust has been designated as a national heritage site by the Rijksdienst voor het Cultureel Erfgoed (RCE), which is responsible for preserving and promoting the Netherlands' cultural heritage.

Visiting Information

The Windlust is open to visitors from April to October, with guided tours available in multiple languages.

Visitors can also participate in milling demonstrations and learn about the mill's history and operations through interactive exhibits.

Notable Historical Events

Windlust has played a significant role in the region's agricultural history, particularly during the 18th century when it was used to grind grain for local farmers.

The mill has also been featured in various cultural events and exhibitions celebrating Dutch milling traditions.