Molenroedeloods
Potschuur Firma Pot
Waardhuis
September 13, 2025
The National Open Monuments Days are a yearly celebration for everybody. Across the country, the most remarkable places reveal their secrets. Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage also puts its best foot forward to showcase what Dutch history is all about.
On Saturday, September 13, we invite you to explore the rich heritage of Kinderdijk during Open Monuments Day & Craftsmen’s Day. Experience history, meet skilled artisans, and immerse yourself in the world of craftsmanship and tradition.
Open Monuments day is part of the European Heritage Days (EHD). Each year, an international theme is chosen, with all participating countries contributing to it. This year’s theme is: Heritage & Architecture – Built to Last.
In Kinderdijk, we will exceptionally open the doors to two special locations: the Waardhuis and the Molenroedeloods-potschuur. The Waardhuis still carries the atmosphere of times past, when important decisions about water management were made here. The Molenroedeloods-potschuur tells the story of the Firma Pot, a shipyard and supplier of riveted iron mill sails. Between 1852 and 1945, they provided sails to mills throughout the Netherlands.
Normally, these places remain closed to the public, but on Open Monumentendag you can join a guided tour free of charge by registration. A unique opportunity to literally take a behind-the-scenes look at our World Heritage!
Discover the story of Firma Pot – register here
Visit the centuries-old Waardhuis – register here
Molenroedeloods
Potschuur Firma Pot
Waardhuis
In addition to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look during Open Monument Day, Kinderdijk also hosts Craftsmen’s Day. Visitors can meet skilled artisans, see centuries-old techniques come to life, and experience how craftsmanship and tradition are inseparably linked to our heritage.
Please note: The visiting locations in Kinderdijk, such as the museum mills and canal cruises, are only accessible with a valid ticket on this day. Open Monuments Day and Craftsmen’s Day are a valuable addition to your visit but do not provide free access to the entire area.
Combine your visit with the Kinderdijk Tour to make the most of this day. During this tour, a local guide will immerse you in the fascinating story of Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage.
In addition to Open Monuments Day & Craftsman’s Day, it’s also Windmill Day in Kinderdijk. This means that, with sufficient wind (at least wind force 2-3), as many mills as possible will be operating between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It is a wonderful sight to see as many rotating windmills as possible at the same time.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the mills in full glory and learn more about water management in the Netherlands. Order your tickets now and experience a day full of craft and tradition!
