Dutch windmills are more than postcard-perfect. For centuries, they’ve been keeping our feet dry: literally. Find out how windmills ended up doing some of the Netherlands’ most important work: keeping the water under control.
Fighting the Water: Windmills as Pumps
Much of the Netherlands lies below sea level. Without constant management, many regions would simply flood. That’s where windmills came in. From the 15th century onward, they were used to pump excess water out of low-lying areas and into canals, rivers, or reservoirs.
Milling Grain and More
Not all windmills fought floods. Some ground grain into flour or pressed seeds for oil. Others helped saw wood, an essential task during the Dutch Golden Age when shipbuilding was booming.
Smart Engineering in a Flat Land
What makes Dutch windmills unique is their adaptability. The design could be customized for different purposes, and many were built in chains to work together especially in large polders like Kinderdijk. These connected systems moved massive amounts of water across long distances.
Then and Now: From Wind to Electricity
While many traditional windmills are now museums, the Dutch have taken wind technology to the next level. Today, the country is a leader in wind-powered electricity. The modern turbines you see on the horizon are the latest chapter in a long story of innovation.
Bonus: Want to dive deeper?
Dutch windmills aren’t just charming landmarks they’re living machines. In fact, many of them still turn regularly to stay in good shape. If they stop moving for too long, parts can crack or seize up. So next time you see those sails turning, remember: it’s not just for show. It’s tradition, preservation, and a bit of Dutch ingenuity at work.
Want to see a whole landscape shaped by windmills? Join our tour to Kinderdijk and experience it for yourself.
About us
Dutch Tours is run by Eva and Sarah, two passionate locals who believe in slow travel and authentic Dutch experiences. We offer private and small-group day trips from Amsterdam, led by local guides. Explore hidden towns, scenic countryside and real Dutch culture, all at a relaxed pace. Have a look at our tours or contact us directly via info@dutch-tours.com