Zaanse Schans, located in the Netherlands near Zaandijk and Zaandam, is a picturesque neighborhood known for its well-preserved windmills and traditional wooden houses.
This charming area was developed as a living museum, showcasing historic structures that were relocated from the Zaan region for conservation between 1961 and 1974. Using specialized lowboy trailers, these historic buildings were carefully transported to create this iconic Dutch experience.
While many buildings were moved, two of the windmills remain on their original sites, standing as authentic relics of the past. The neighborhood also features the Zaans Museum, founded in 1994, which offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural and industrial history.
Zaanse Schans is a must-visit for those wanting to step back in time and experience the Netherlands’ heritage, complete with the iconic sight of windmills turning against the backdrop of the Dutch landscape.