Watermolen van Tielen, Protected watermill in Tielen, Belgium
Watermolen van Tielen is a protected watermill on the Aa River in Kasterlee featuring a metal undershot wheel. The system includes a water diversion channel from the river to maintain steady flow for reliable operation.
Records from 1428 show that Kathelijne van Ranst-de Pane owned this mill. The structure collapsed in winter 1565 when ice formed on the Aa River.
The mill house shows typical regional building style from the 17th century with its arched doorway and partly thatched roof. Visitors can still observe how such structures were built to withstand the demands of water-powered work.
The mill building sits along Watermolenstraat and is viewable from outside, though interior access may be limited. Visitors should be prepared for damp conditions around the riverwork and wear sturdy shoes.
The current metal drive mechanism and wheel originally came from a different watermill in Chastre in Namur province. These components were moved and reassembled here, showing how mill parts traveled between locations.
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