The oldest working watermill in the Netherlands that dates back to the 7th century is quietly hidden away behind this façade, in the city centre of Maastricht.
The first historical mention was in 1092, when the mill owner, Duke Godfrey of Bouillon, leased part of his property, including the mill to the Bishop of Liège in order to finance his participation in the First Crusade. The Duke, who was unmarried and childless, died in Jerusalem in 1099. The mill became episcopal property known as the “Bisschopsmolen” or the Bishop’s Mill.
Unfortunately, the Spanish siege of 1577 destroyed a large part of this Jekerkwartier neighbourhood and the mill was reduced to ashes.
In 1609, some parts of the mill were rebuilt. After that, it was remodelled several times, had different functions throughout the years and changed ownerships again and again.
The Bishop’s Mill is now owned by the municipality of Maastricht. The mill was restored in 2004 and became the first mill to produce 100% spelt flour in the Netherlands.
If you want to visit …
The centuries-old water wheel located on Stenenbrug is freely accessible to the public.
Simply walk into the building and proceed towards the back.
There is a simple one-page sheet listing the chronology of events about this Bishop’s Mill written in Dutch, framed up on a display box. There is no English explanation available.
The adjacent artisan bakery-café serves freshly baked bread along with a very simple breakfast and lunch menu and presents the local pastry speciality of Limburgse vlaai (Limburg pie). You must try the traditional apple, apricot or cherry fruit-flavoured pie!
Additionally, Bisschopsmolen offers workshops on “How to Make a Vlaai”, sells baking products and provides special B&B accommodation right above the bakery. Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread every morning. Quite the perfect spot to experience local hospitality!
Bisschopsmolen is one of the best free things to do right here in the centre of Maastricht and truly a hidden gem.
Website: https://www.bisschopsmolen.nl
Address: Stenenbrug 1-3. 6211 HP Maastricht.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday from 08:30am – 5pm and Sunday from 9:00am – 5pm.
Getting There: About 15-min walk from Maastricht train station or 7-min walk from Vrijthof.
