Gravenmolen

Gravenmolen

Gravenmolen is a historic windmill located in the municipality of Kasterlee, Belgium. It is a well-preserved example of a traditional post mill, which is a type of windmill that is constructed on a single vertical post, allowing it to be turned to face the wind.

History

The Gravenmolen was built in 1797 and has been in operation for over two centuries. It was originally used for grinding grain into flour, an essential process in the production of food during that time. The mill was an important part of the local community, providing a vital service to the surrounding farmers.

Architecture

The Gravenmolen is a four-storey wooden windmill with a thatched roof. It stands on a sturdy brick base, which houses the machinery and storage areas. The mill's sails, or "wings," are made of canvas and are attached to a rotating cap that can be turned to face the wind. This design allows the miller to adjust the position of the sails to maximize the wind's power.

Restoration

In the late 20th century, the Gravenmolen fell into disrepair and was at risk of being lost forever. However, thanks to the efforts of local preservation societies and the municipality of Kasterlee, the mill was carefully restored to its former glory. The restoration process involved replacing damaged or worn-out parts, reinforcing the structure, and ensuring that the mill could once again function as a working windmill.

Present Day

Today, the Gravenmolen serves as a living museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to see a traditional windmill in action. The mill is open to the public, and guided tours are available to explain the milling process and the history of the mill. Visitors can also purchase freshly ground flour produced by the mill, which is still used for baking traditional bread and pastries.

See Also

• Windmill
• Kasterlee
• Post mill