Molen van Sloten

Whispering secrets on the wind, the Molen van Sloten stands proudly. It’s a captivating sight here in Sloten. This isn’t just any windmill. The Molen van Sloten plays a vital role, diligently working alongside the Akergemaal. Together, they ensure the Westelijke Tuinsteden remain dry and thriving. This octagonal, thatched, oak beauty isn’t an ancient relic, though its story stretches back through time. The current Molen van Sloten was built in 1991. It represents a rebirth, incorporating the heart of an 1847 mill from Watergraafsmeer. This older mill was dismantled in 1878, but its sturdy frame lived on as a house. It stood for over a century, until road construction threatened it. Saved from destruction in 1981, its components were kept for restoration. This mill found its new purpose here in Sloten. The dream of a poldermolen in Sloten had existed for decades. A plan to relocate the 1200 Roe here in the 1960s failed. The need for a stellingmolen, a poldermolen with a staging platform, became apparent in the 1980s. The Molen van Sloten fulfilled this need. Initially equipped with Fauël sails, likely with a nod to its grinding past, it now boasts Oud-Hollandse sails. This change, made after repairs in 2010, gives it a true Amsterdam character. Inside, you can discover the intricacies of mill technology and the intertwined history of Sloten and Oud Osdorp. And, a fun fact, the mill has a Rembrandt connection. Rembrandt van Rijn’s father was a miller. Rembrandt himself had ties to Sloten. You can explore a special exhibit dedicated to him on the “Rembrandt attic.” The Molen van Sloten welcomes visitors daily, offering a glimpse into its working life. It even serves as a wedding venue, adding a touch of romance to its story. The Molen van Sloten stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Dutch ingenuity, blending history and functionality in a picturesque setting.