Water Mill at Gennep, Historical watermill in Gestel, Netherlands
The Water Mill at Gennep is a working building along the Dommel river with a water wheel that grinds grain using flowing water. The wheel turns the internal machinery that moves heavy stones to crush and process wheat and other grains.
The building dates back to the 13th century as a gift to an abbey across the border in what is now Belgium. A major fire in the 16th century destroyed much of it, leading to a complete reconstruction that shaped the structure visitors see today.
The mill holds a special place in art history through Vincent van Gogh's 1884 paintings, which captured its structure and character at a turning point in its life. This connection makes it more than just a working building but a subject that mattered to someone seeking to understand rural craftsmanship.
The mill sits beside the river and is walkable to reach, though paths around it can be wet or uneven depending on the season. Wear suitable footwear since the ground near water can be slippery or muddy.
The mill once served as a banmolen, meaning local farmers were required by law to bring their grain here and pay for its processing. This forced monopoly was a way feudal lords controlled the food supply and collected taxes on daily necessities.
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