De Vlijt, Grain windmill in Koudum, Netherlands
De Vlijt is a grain mill in Koudum that functions as a working gristmill in the Frisian countryside. The structure features a wooden cap covered in tar and displays the characteristic design of a stellingmolen with a protected lower section.
The mill was originally built in the 18th century as a polder mill in Oppenhuizen. It was relocated to its current location in Koudum in 1986, where it continues to operate as a protected monument.
Local volunteer millers keep traditional grain processing alive through their regular work at the mill. Visitors can watch how these practices connect to the region's agricultural heritage and community life.
Visitors can observe the internal workings of the mill during guided tours offered from March to October. It helps to check in advance when tours are scheduled so you can watch the grain processing in action.
The building belongs to a rare type called a stellingmolen, where the lower section benefits from special roof tile protection. This design was specifically created to handle water and moisture in polder areas.
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