Exploring Schiedam: A Dutch Gem of Windmills, Gin, and History

Exploring Schiedam's History: From Dam to Gin Capital

Schiedam's story is a fascinating one, beginning not as a bustling city, but as a simple dam on the Schie river in the 13th century. From those humble beginnings, it blossomed into a thriving trading town, its strategic location fueling its growth.

By the 18th century, Schiedam had transformed into a global powerhouse – the world's capital of genever. Dozens of distilleries, powered by those magnificent windmills, shaped the city's identity. This industrial past is still vividly apparent today; you can practically taste the history in the air.

The city's architecture, its museums, even its atmosphere, whisper tales of a vibrant industrial past. It's a captivating blend of old and new, a testament to Schiedam's ability to honor its roots while embracing the present. I found it to be far more charming than I remembered from my previous visit.

A Canal Boat Tour and a Windmill Visit

Our initial plan was a canal boat tour – those little boats gliding along the water with music looked utterly charming. Unfortunately, it was fully booked. A tiny bit disappointing, yes, but it only fueled our determination to explore other aspects of Schiedam.

Instead, we headed straight for one of Schiedam's iconic windmills. And what luck! It turned out to be 'Windmill Day,' meaning free entry. Even better, we stumbled into a completely unexpected private tour. Robert, a windmill employee, noticed us filming and generously offered to show us around, sharing fascinating facts and stories about this magnificent structure built in 1794. He explained its role in Schiedam's gin-producing past and its current function as a museum. Normally, the entry fee is €8.50, so our free VIP experience felt like a true stroke of luck.

The windmill itself was impressive – a towering testament to Schiedam's industrial heritage. Climbing its four levels revealed a stunning panoramic view of the city. Robert’s engaging storytelling made the experience even more memorable, adding depth and color to what we were seeing. It was a perfect blend of history, stunning visuals, and unexpected kindness—a true highlight of our Schiedam adventure.

Exploring Museum de Dubbelde Palmboom: Modern and Contemporary Art

Tucked away in Schiedam's historic city center, Museum de Dubbelde Palmboom offered a fascinating juxtaposition. Housed in the former Saint Jacob's Hospital, an impressive 18th-century Neoclassical building, the museum itself is a work of art. The imposing structure, a testament to Schiedam's rich past, provided a stark contrast to the modern and contemporary art within.

The museum's collection focuses on Dutch art from the latter half of the 20th century. While the art itself wasn’t entirely my cup of tea, I found the building and its history undeniably captivating. A special exhibition on the women of Schiedam was particularly interesting, showcasing a different side of the city's narrative. And the miniature replica of Schiedam? Absolutely charming – I wish there had been more to it!

My visit was unfortunately rather brief, partly due to some areas of the museum being closed that day. However, the impressive architecture and the glimpse into modern Dutch art, combined with the unique historical context, made it a worthwhile stop on our Schiedam adventure. It’s a museum that rewards those who appreciate the blend of old and new, history and art.

A Journey Through the National Jenevermuseum

Our exploration of Schiedam's spirit-filled history naturally led us to the National Jenevermuseum. Housed within a former distillery, the museum offers a captivating glimpse into the city's past as the global capital of genever. It's not just a collection of dusty bottles; the museum breathes life into the production process, from the traditional distillation methods to the artistry of the vintage advertisements.

I found the displays incredibly well-curated, showcasing the evolution of genever production with impressive detail. Antique bottles, fascinating machinery, and even old marketing materials—it's all there, painted with a vibrant narrative of Schiedam’s industrial heyday. And yes, there's a tasting! While I'm not a huge fan of strong spirits, even I appreciated the chance to sample a few variations. The cocktail, in particular, proved a surprisingly delightful way to enjoy this historic drink. It was a much more palatable way to experience this potent spirit than the pure variety!

Chocolate Indulgence and Final Drinks

Our exploration of Schiedam's rich history culminated in a delightful detour – a visit to a charming chocolate shop tucked away in the heart of the old town. The prices were a bit steep (around €7 for a small selection), but the quality was undeniable. It was a perfect, sweet ending to a day of exploring.

Feeling relaxed and content after our chocolate indulgence, we sought a final respite. We discovered a lovely beer garden, bathed in the warm afternoon sun. It was the perfect place for some refreshing drinks and a light snack. I opted for a cola, while my companion enjoyed fries – a classic Dutch treat. Sipping our drinks and soaking up the atmosphere, we reflected on our adventure through Schiedam's captivating blend of history, charm, and unexpected discoveries. The day, a fantastic mix of culture, history and delightful moments, had truly been a treat.

What is Schiedam most famous for?

Schiedam is renowned for its history of gin production, once the global capital of genever, and its impressive windmills, some of the tallest in the world, which historically powered the distilleries.

What are some must-see attractions in Schiedam?

Key attractions include the Grote Kerk (main church), the iconic windmills (offering tours and panoramic views), the National Jenevermuseum (gin museum with tastings), and Museum de Dubbelde Palmboom (showcasing modern art in a historic building).

What's the best way to experience Schiedam's history?

A combination of visiting the Grote Kerk, exploring the windmills, and immersing yourself in the National Jenevermuseum will provide a comprehensive look at Schiedam's rich past, from its religious and architectural heritage to its role as a global gin center.