Standing proudly between Funenkade and Zeeburgerstraat on Amsterdam’s eastern edge, De Gooyer commands attention as the tallest wooden windmill in the Netherlands. At an impressive 26.6 meters high, this octagonal wooden giant is a striking reminder of the country’s rich windmill heritage. With its stone foundation and graceful wooden body, the De Gooyer windmill isn’t just another Amsterdam landmark—it’s a living connection to centuries of Dutch innovation and resilience.
From 16th Century Survivor to National Monument
De Gooyer’s remarkable story dates back to the 16th century, though the current structure dates to 1814, when it found its permanent home on Funenkade. What makes this windmill truly special is its status as the last survivor of 26 corn mills that once lined Amsterdam’s 17th-century defensive walls. These strategic positions captured unobstructed winds outside the city to power the mills.
The name “De Gooyer” has fascinating origins, dating to around 1609 when two brothers from Gooiland (Claes and Jan Willemsz) owned the mill. Also known locally as “The Funenmolen,” this windmill has weathered numerous relocations, destructions, and rebuildings throughout its long history. During World War II, when power was scarce, De Gooyer once again served as a corn mill for the entire city—proving its enduring value to Amsterdam even in modern times.
Today, this resilient structure is a registered National Monument, an octagonal testament to Dutch perseverance and ingenuity. Its journey through time reflects Amsterdam’s evolution from a walled city to the vibrant metropolis we know today.
Why Visit? A Perfect Blend of History and Local Culture
De Gooyer offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness a genuine piece of Dutch historical engineering in its original element. While the internal grinding mechanism is no longer active, the windmill’s sails remain functional—catch them in motion on a windy day for a truly magical Amsterdam experience.
What makes this landmark particularly special is its position within the modern Funenpark neighborhood, which has transformed from an industrial area into a vibrant residential zone. This juxtaposition of old and new creates a fascinating architectural contrast that photography enthusiasts will love.
Perhaps the most delightful aspect of visiting De Gooyer is its famous neighbor—Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a popular craft brewery housed in a former municipal bathhouse dating back to 1911.
It’s worth noting that despite appearances (and the brewery’s logo featuring a windmill), the two establishments are entirely separate entities. Nevertheless, few Amsterdam experiences rival sipping a locally brewed craft beer on the brewery’s terrace while admiring the majestic De Gooyer windmill towering above.
Visitor Information
- Location: Funenkade 5, 1018 AL Amsterdam
- Opening Hours: The windmill itself is not open to the public, but can be viewed from the outside at any time
- Brouwerij ‘t IJ Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM (subject to change)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or summer for ideal photography conditions and brewery terrace enjoyment
- Accessibility: Easily reached via tram line 14 (Pontanusstraat stop), by bike, or as part of a pleasant 20-30 minute walk from Central Station
Amsterdam’s Windmill Heritage
The Netherlands is famous worldwide for its windmills, and while De Gooyer stands as Amsterdam’s most impressive example, it tells only part of the country’s windmill story. The nearby Zaanse Schans offers a collection of historic working windmills about 15 km north of Amsterdam for visitors looking to explore more of this iconic Dutch heritage.
What makes De Gooyer special among Amsterdam’s landmarks is that it represents the last remaining windmill of the 26 that once crowned the city’s defensive walls. Its survival through centuries of urban development makes it not just a charming photo opportunity but a genuine historical treasure recognized by the Dutch Windmill Society.
Experience the Soul of Amsterdam
De Gooyer is a majestic reminder of the Netherlands’ profound connection to wind power and Amsterdam’s rich, multifaceted past. Its impressive wooden structure is an enduring symbol of Dutch ingenuity and resilience, having witnessed centuries of urban development and societal change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest windmill in Amsterdam?
De Gooyer is Amsterdam’s largest and tallest wooden windmill, standing at an impressive 26.6 meters high. It’s also recognized as the tallest wooden windmill in the entire Netherlands.
What is the brewery in the windmill in Amsterdam?
While Brouwerij ‘t IJ is adjacent to the De Gooyer windmill and uses the windmill in its logo, the brewery is actually housed in a former municipal bathhouse next to the windmill, not inside it. The two are separate entities, though many visitors enjoy the brewery’s terrace with windmill views.
Can you go inside De Gooyer windmill?
Unfortunately, the interior of De Gooyer is not open to the public as it’s a protected monument. However, visitors can admire its impressive exterior and enjoy excellent views from the neighboring brewery’s terrace.
When is the best time to visit De Gooyer?
Spring and summer offer the best experience, with longer daylight hours for photography and pleasant weather for enjoying the brewery’s outdoor terrace. On windy days, you might get lucky and see the windmill’s sails in motion, adding to the authentic experience.
How do I get to De Gooyer windmill?
The windmill is easily accessible via tram line 14 (exit at Pontanusstraat stop), by bicycle (plenty of bike rental options in central Amsterdam), or as part of a scenic 20-30 minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
