De Put, Reconstructed windmill near Morspoort, Leiden, Netherlands
De Put is a windmill on the northern bank of the Rhine near Leiden, built with a rotating design that allows it to turn toward the wind. The structure features traditional milling blades and uses wind power to grind grain into flour.
The original mill was built in 1619 and ground grain for Leiden's growing population. The structure was reconstructed in 1987 to restore its authentic form and working function.
The mill still works as a traditional corn mill, run by dedicated volunteers who keep the old craft of milling alive. Visitors can watch the mill actually grind grain and understand how the work happened in earlier times.
The mill opens to visitors on Saturday afternoons, though operations depend on wind and weather conditions. Wear appropriate clothing as the riverside location can be exposed to changing weather throughout the year.
The name comes from Jan Jansz Put, a 17th century miller whose family worked this location for many years. This connection between the person and the mill makes it a living part of Leiden's family history.
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