Molen de Distilleerketel (Distilling Kettle Mill), Rotterdam

Delfshaven's historical panorama remains incomplete without the presence of a windmill, an integral element. Fortunately, this locality proudly preserves its very own windmill, the sole survivor within the heart of Rotterdam, accompanied by other edifices from before the war.

Referred to as the "Distilleerketel" or Distilling Kettle, this windmill was originally constructed in 1727 to grind malt for distilleries. This function possibly gave rise to its name. Alternatively, the nomenclature might have arisen from its visual resemblance to a kettle – an upright cylindrical tower measuring 10 meters, constructed from stone and crowned with a cap.

The mill suffered destruction by fire in 1899, yet it was meticulously reconstructed at a new location, some eleven meters distant from its original placement. During this reconstruction, the hull was raised by a meter, resulting in a slightly more slender profile compared to its predecessor. The mill also endured partial devastation due to bombing in 1940 during World War II. Nevertheless, the Distilleerketel underwent a complete restoration in 1986, a fact commemorated by the Latin inscription on the ornate green-and-white panel: "1727-1940 RESTORED THROUGH THE DILIGENT EFFORTS OF MANY CITIZENS IN 1986".

A shop named the "Molenwinkel van Delfshaven" was inaugurated in September 2018. This establishment offers a variety of flour-based products produced by the mill. Additionally, it features an assortment of items for sale, including coffee, tea, and delicacies from Virginia's Kitchen, as well as mementos representing diverse regions of the Netherlands.

Tip:
To learn more about this windmill and the Dutch windmill culture, plus to enjoy a great view of historic Delfshaven and downtown Rotterdam from the upper deck, take a 15-minute tour for a small fee.