Looking around you at the Zaanse Schans, you will see nothing but history. A feeling of nostalgia, no, more than that, a slight feeling of homesickness will strike you when you see the wooden facades, the slit windows and the low doors. Here, centuries of memories are like footprints of history resounding in each chamber. Hundreds of years ago, people slept, cooked, laughed, cried, loved, argued, were born and died within these walls. And still the Zaanse Schans lives on, because all premises are lived in. We will be pleased to share with you the stories connected with these special places.

Learn more about the Dutch wooden shoe making and see a demonstration how they make the Dutch clogs these days. There is a possibility to buy wooden shoes as well or some other nice souvenirs.

Making paint in a mill? Absolutely! Miller Piet Kempenaar and his colleagues keep the sails of this unique paint milling mill turning. They are the real experts and know every nook and cranny of the mill. They also know everything about old paint techniques. Don’t hesitate to walk in for a demonstration. De Kat was built in 1664 and even now it produces paints and pigments of high quality. These are supplied to artists and restorers across the world. Apart from paint, the mill also produces chalk, pigments and oils. Don’t be surprised if when you enter the mill, the entire building vibrates with the milling. The primal strength of the building is also the reason that the mill has been in existence for such a long time. See the paint windmill (that is where Rembrandt the great Dutch artist purchased his paint) from inside and climb to the second floor to take some beautiful pictures.

A very special mill at the Zaanse Schans: Het Jonge Schaap is a six-sided, over-wheeling wood saw mill. This shape was unique among the more than 350 saw mills that stood in the Zaan area. The mill was built in 1680 in the Westzijderveld in Zaandam, and was active there until it was demolished in 1942. In 2007 the rebuilding process at the new location at the Zaanse Schans, during which as much use as possible was made of 17th century building methods, was finished. From then on Het Jonge Schaap was back in use as a saw mill. The sale of wood is the main source of income for the mill. Therefore, if the wind allows, it is very busy in the mill. Come and have a look during the miller’s work day and experience how a wood saw mill operates. Also watch the movie about the rebuilding of the mill. Everyone is welcome: Het Jonge Schaap is also accessible for disabled persons. Closed on 1st Christmas Day and April 27th Kings Day.

Possibility to buy nice fresh waffles.

Visit the Henri Willig cheese shop and taste their special Gouda cheese. You can eat as much cheese as you want for free! There are more than 30 different types of cheese so enjoy! There is a possibility to buy the nice cheese as well.