The Netherlands is widely recognized as a "windmill country," these iconic structures, now considered tourist landmarks, were initially vital for activities like grain processing, drainage, field-making, and wood processing.

They played a crucial role in the economic development of the Netherlands, serving as "witnesses" to the country's rich history and culture.

Windmills, introduced from Germany, debuted in Holland during the 13th century. Initially, they were exclusively used for grain processing, particularly flour milling, earning them the name "korenmolen."

The Netherlands' low-lying landscape, often below sea level, led to wet conditions and difficulties in natural water drainage. To address this, in the 15th century, the Dutch introduced a different type of windmill known as the "poldermolen." These windmills were designed to drain low-lying areas and regulate field water levels, facilitating agricultural activities.

The poldermolen was crucial in reclaiming vast land in the west and north.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, windmills significantly contributed to the economic development of the Netherlands.

They processed diverse raw materials worldwide, including timber from the Nordic and Baltic countries, flaxseed from Germany, and spices like cinnamon and pepper from India and Southeast Asia.

The latter half of the 19th century it marked the pinnacle of windmill development in the Netherlands, with approximately 9,000 windmills scattered across the country.

However, as industrial technology advanced rapidly, windmills lost their primary role, leading them to retire as historical monuments.

Windmills are symbolic of the Netherlands' national industrial culture and hold a special place in the hearts of the Dutch people. Refusing to bid farewell to these iconic structures, the "windmill guardian" concept emerged.

In the quaint village of Oerle in the south of the Netherlands, a windmill has stood since the 1300s, traditionally used for grain processing.

Despite being replaced by a modern milling plant in 1932, the village residents, grateful for the windmill's historical contributions, rebuilt a new windmill named Sint Jan in 1987.

Sint Jan continues to operate twice weekly, supplying freshly ground "windmill pasta" to the local community. The revenue generated from the sale of these noodles is utilized for the windmill's maintenance.

The commitment to preserving windmills extends across the entire country.

With collective efforts from Dutch society, approximately 1,050 windmills and 500 watermills are now conserved.

Though these windmills may have faded from their historical glory, younger generations must invest attention and effort into their maintenance, ensuring the continuity of this traditional industrial culture.