Kinderdijk
Zuid-Holland
Kinderdijk is a picturesque village in South Holland, Netherlands, famous for its unique network of 19 historic windmills built around 1740 to manage water levels in the Alblasserwaard polder. These windmills form the largest concentration of old mills in the country and represent an ingenious system of polder drainage that has preserved the land from flooding for centuries. The village lies at the confluence of the Lek and Noord rivers, where the windmills pump excess water into reservoirs and rivers, a method that was essential before modern diesel pumping stations took over. Kinderdijk's windmills are not only engineering marvels but also cultural icons, attracting visitors worldwide to admire their traditional Dutch architecture and rural landscape. The area also includes other water management structures such as dikes, reservoirs, and pumping stations, showcasing centuries of Dutch expertise in controlling water. The village's name, meaning "Children's dike," is tied to a local legend about a baby saved during the Saint Elizabeth flood of 1421. Today, Kinderdijk remains a symbol of Dutch heritage and resilience, offering a captivating glimpse into the country's relationship with water and land reclamation.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kinderdijk is during spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and the windmills are fully operational. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues. Visitors can explore the area by foot, bicycle, or boat tours that provide unique views of the windmills and surrounding waterways. Discounts are often available for groups, seniors, and children. Guided tours are advised for a deeper understanding of the windmills' history and function. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer excellent lighting for photography and a quieter atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- •Kinderdijk hosts the largest concentration of historic windmills in the Netherlands, totaling 19 mills from the 18th century.
- •The village was the first in the Netherlands to have an electricity supply in 1886, powered by the pioneering electricity plant designed by Willem Benjamin Smit.
- •The name 'Kinderdijk' means 'Children's dike' and is linked to a local legend involving a baby saved during the Saint Elizabeth flood of 1421.
- •Some windmills at Kinderdijk are still operational and used for water management alongside modern pumping stations.
- •Kinderdijk's windmills have appeared in popular culture, including video games such as 'Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves' and 'Capcom vs. SNK 2.'
History
Kinderdijk's origins trace back to the early 15th century, notably after the Saint Elizabeth flood of 1421, which devastated the region but left the Alblasserwaard polder intact.
To combat recurring flooding and soil subsidence, a series of canals and eventually 19 windmills were constructed around 1740 to pump water from the low-lying polders into reservoirs and rivers.
These windmills were part of an evolving water management system that transitioned from manual and steam-powered pumps to modern diesel stations by the mid-20th century.
In 1997, the windmills and surrounding landscape were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their historical and technological significance.
Place Guide
Nederwaard Windmills1738
A row of eight round stone windmills built around 1738 on the west side of the Middelkade, these windmills are part of the original water management system. One of these mills is open to the public, offering insight into traditional milling techniques.
Overwaard Windmills1740
Eight octagonal reed-thatched windmills constructed around 1740 on the east side of the Middelkade. These mills complement the Nederwaard mills in pumping water from the polders.
Blokweerse Molen
A distinctive 'wipmolen' or sawmill used historically for polder drainage, located near the Overwaard mills. It is part of the ensemble demonstrating various windmill types used for water management.
Wisboom Steam Pumping Station1868
Established in 1868 to enhance pumping capacity, this steam-powered pumping station is now equipped with an electric pump and remains a significant part of Kinderdijk's water management heritage.
J.U. Smit Pumping Station1972
Built in 1972, this modern pumping station uses advanced technology to maintain water levels in the polders, illustrating the evolution from wind to mechanical power.
Gemeenlandshuis van de Overwaard1644
A historic administrative building used since 1644 by the local water board, located near the Lek river, symbolizing the governance of water management in the area.
