Stuck with tons of life issues made me realize recently that it's high time to go somewhere for a long walk. I can't travel right now so it will be nice to go somewhere to have a long walk. I haven't seen or explored the Netherlands thoroughly in fact I have seen almost nothing except for a few locations. Today I felt so down and felt like I needed somewhere to be alone and enjoy unknown vibes but the weather didn't allow me to do it. So, I thought to take a virtual memory lane walk in the beautiful city of Haarlem and finish my writing about this city in the Netherlands that I have started a long time ago.
I have written two posts featuring the Netherland city Haarlem where I shared Amsterdamse Poort, Grote Markt, beautiful architecture and canals; and locations like this. This city has a lot to offer for the tourists to explore and a day trip to Haarlem will be a nice choice for the tourists. When I was in Haarlem, the weather was really nice, sunny and not so crowded. I found a place to sit, relax, and walk around and enjoyed a canal walk while exploring the city's beautiful architecture. During summer, the city might get crowded due to the tourist season. Haarlem city is not far from Amsterdam so many tourists go to Haarlem for a day trip. I heard some even take a boat ride from Amsterdam to Haarlem through the canal. Anyway, today I decided to share two more important locations of Haarlem with you...
Windmill De Adriaan (1779)
I was just walking in the city following the canals and architecture. That's how I discovered Amsterdamse Poort spot. To be honest, I went to Haarlem with no expectations, I found this city close to my city so I went there. So, after seeing Amsterdamse Poort I found out about Windmill De Adriaan; a historic windmill. From Amsterdamse Poort, this windmill is located 8 minutes walk away, so from far away, I had seen a glimpse of the windmill. Obviously, this windmill is one of the landmarks of Haarlem city so it was visible from different sides of the city but what attracted me the most was that the windmill was located near the canal.
The name of this historic windmill is called Windmill De Adriaan; located on the banks of the Spaarne River in Haarlem, Netherlands. Built in 1779, this beautiful Molen (windmill) has become an iconic symbol of the city. It was originally constructed as a wooden mill, but it was used for grinding grain and producing flour.
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History says that Windmill De Adriaan has undergone several renovations and restorations. One significant event in its history occurred in 1930 when a fierce storm damaged the mill severely, causing it to be partially destroyed. Later 1932, the windmill burnt down completely due to fire. However, the people of Haarlem were determined to preserve their beloved landmark, and the mill renovation was delayed over the years. However in 2002, exactly 70 years after the fire, this windmill finally reopened. source.
To see the windmill from inside and to see how it works, tourists can buy tickets. Well, I didn't do that, I just walked around and enjoyed the city view from the spot. From the location of the windmill, the Spaarne River view looked spectacular.
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I saw this windmill from different angles from different parts of the city. I went to a nearby neighborhood from where a partial part of the molen/windmill can be seen. In my mind, I was thinking that lucky people live in such a gorgeous place. I saw the windmill from the other side of the river, from the street...
The best part for me was the Spaarne Riverside view. There was a spot where you can just sit and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the river and the city. I did that, sat near the river and it felt so nice...
Small harbor area where boats were parked, small port area. Are they fishing boats??
Teylers Hofje
Teylers Hofje was founded by Pieter Teyler van der Hulst, a wealthy Dutch cloth merchant and philanthropist. The Hofje (almshouse - a house founded by charity ) was created to provide housing for elderly women in need. Teylers Hofje is a picturesque courtyard located in the heart of Haarlem, Netherlands, established in the early 18th century.
From Windmill to Teylers Hofje, 3 mins walk...
When I was there, the entrance was under renovation. So, I kind of disturbed the people who lived there. The monument was in the middle of the courtyard.
The courtyard is surrounded by charming brick buildings with quaint gables, forming a serene and secluded space away from the bustle of the city. A central garden, adorned with lush greenery and flowers, adds to the tranquil atmosphere of Teylers Hofje.
The almshouse was designed to accommodate around 24 women, who were provided with comfortable living quarters and a sense of community and support. Over the years, the hofje has undergone renovations and improvements while still retaining its original character and charm.
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It was really nice to be there and to experience the original idea of Pieter Teyler van der Hulst and his desire to provide for the less fortunate members of society. Today, it continues to serve as a peaceful retreat for its residents, offering them a place to call home amidst the historic streets of Haarlem. It was lovely to stroll around the courtyard following the partway and green garden. But I didn't spend much time there thinking I might be hampering people's privacy.
On my way back to the station, I went to see Kermis which was very famous in Haarlem. The next Kermis is on 28th April 2024.
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Some more photographs from the canal-side walk and the architecture of the city...
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The day ended well and that was all about the city of Haarlem that I have seen and explored...
Love
Priyan...
I am @priyanarc.... An architect, a dreamer, and a passionate writer who loves to write about life. I try to present my own perspective and experiences. Please leave your feedback and criticism because it's the only way I can know and reach your mind and thoughts easily...
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