Molen De Kat
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Sights & Landmarks
Attraction
About
The De Kat windmill, perched on the picturesque Zaanse Schans in Zaandam, is the world’s sole functioning paint mill. Originally built in 1646 and rebuilt in 1782 after a fire, this octagonal smock mill grinds raw minerals and chalk into pigments that were shipped to the Dutch Golden Age’s thriving paint factories. Today, visitors can walk through its museum, watching the mill’s gears in motion and learning about the Netherlands’ industrial heritage. With about 130 000 annual visitors, the mill offers interactive displays, a guided walk through the dye‑making process, and a glimpse into 17th‑century craftsmanship.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes