Vannestes Molen

Vannestes Molen is a stone windmill standing in the village of Marke, now part of the city of Kortrijk in the West Flanders province of Belgium. Over the centuries it has carried several other names — Molen Glorieux, Rodenburgmolen, Markemolen and Abdijmolen among them — a reflection of its long history and the various owners who ran it.

Where does the mill's name come from?

The name "Vannestes Molen" comes from the Vanneste family, who ran the mill in the early 19th century. Petrus Vanneste, a resident of Marke, served on the town council and belonged to the Saint Barbara archery guild. From 1825 onward he focused mainly on farming, leaving the milling business to his sons. Their family name stuck to the building permanently, even though a mill had stood on this spot long before them.

How far back does the site's history go?

The earliest recorded mentions of a mill at this location date to 1237, when a wooden windmill occupied the site. That timber structure survived for centuries until, around the middle of the 18th century, a new mill was built here specifically for grinding grain. The wooden building continued serving the people of Marke for decades before eventually giving way to a sturdier construction.

When was the current stone mill built?

In 1839 the decision was made to demolish the old wooden mill to make room for a new stone structure. The resulting brick and stone windmill that still stands today was completed in 1841. For many years it performed a dual role, grinding both grain into flour and seeds into oil, making it an important economic hub for farmers in the surrounding countryside.

What happened to the mill during the 20th century?

The mill's fortunes changed in 1931, when one of its sails broke. The damage effectively ended its regular operation, and from that point on the building gradually fell into disrepair. By the late 1970s its condition had deteriorated to the point where urgent, comprehensive restoration was needed to save it.

Who rescued Vannestes Molen from ruin?

A turning point came in 1982, when the city of Kortrijk became the mill's new owner. This made a thorough restoration possible, which was carried out in 1984. The city invested in bringing the landmark back to its former appearance and structural stability, ensuring it would be preserved for future generations of residents and visitors alike.

Did the mill serve any other purpose?

Yes — after its restoration, the building found new life as a cultural space. Between 2001 and 2014 it housed the Mill and Bakery Museum, which introduced visitors to the traditional craft of flour milling and bread baking in the West Flanders region.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Vannestes Molen located? The mill stands in the village of Marke, now part of the city of Kortrijk in the West Flanders province of Belgium.

What is the current mill built from? The present structure is made of stone and brick and dates from 1841, replacing an earlier wooden mill.

What was the mill used for? It was originally used to grind grain into flour, and later also to press oil from seeds.

Could visitors tour the mill? Between 2001 and 2014 the restored building housed a museum dedicated to the history of milling and baking.

Who owns the mill today? The city of Kortrijk has owned the mill since 1982.