Brussels, Belgium – The municipality of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert has announced the renovation of the historic Lindekemalemolen, one of the oldest watermills in Brussels.
As part of the restoration, the mill’s wheel will be entirely rebuilt using sustainable materials, marking a significant step in preserving the city’s heritage while incorporating modern ecological solutions.
The Lindekemalemolen, first mentioned in historical records in 1129, derives its name from the nearby Lindekemaleveld hamlet. The reconstruction project will utilize wood and corten steel, ensuring durability while maintaining the mill’s traditional aesthetic.
Brussels State Secretary for Urban Development and Heritage, Ans Persoons (Vooruit), emphasized the importance of the initiative in balancing history with innovation.
“This initiative by the municipality of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert breathes new life into an important part of Brussels‘ history and at the same time implements sustainable solutions,” said Persoons. “This way, the project finds the perfect balance between history and innovation.”
Restoring the City’s Water Heritage
The restoration of the Lindekemalemolen is part of a broader movement to highlight Brussels’ historic relationship with water. Many of the city’s waterways were buried underground in the 19th and 20th centuries, diminishing their visibility and role in urban life.
Persoons expressed the ambition to “literally put our sources and waterways back in a positive light as part of ecological urban development.”
The mayor of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Olivier Maingain, welcomed the restoration, stating that it reinforces the city’s commitment to preserving its historical landmarks.
He assured that the building, designated as protected heritage since 1989, will remain intact even if it changes ownership in the future.
Integrating Sustainability and Education
Beyond reconstructing the mill wheel, the project will also introduce a hydroelectric installation. The energy generated will either be used by future occupants of the mill or fed into the electricity grid, making the restoration not just a historical endeavor but also an environmental one.
An educational information board will be placed on-site to inform visitors about the history of the mill and the significance of renewable energy.
The Lindekemalemolen, situated in the scenic Malou Park, was originally built to grind grain but transitioned into a paper mill in the 16th century. In the 19th century, it diversified into producing snuff and chicory.
However, as industrial flour mills became dominant, the Lindekemalemolen lost its economic function. In the early 20th century, it was converted into a café, offering Brussels residents a tranquil retreat amid nature.
With the development of the Avenue de Tervueren and improved public transport, the mill became increasingly accessible to visitors. Since 1966, it has functioned as the well-known restaurant ‘Le Moulin de Lindekemale.’
Watermills and Urban Renewal
The Lindekemalemolen is one of the few remaining watermills in Brussels, a city once shaped by a network of watercourses and mills. Historically, rivers such as the Zenne and its tributaries, including the Woluwe, Maelbeek, and Molenbeek, played a crucial role in local industry.
While many of these waterways have been covered over, recent urban renewal projects—such as the ‘Max-sur-Zenne’ initiative and the redevelopment of the Neerpedebeek in Anderlecht—aim to revive Brussels’ aquatic heritage.
With the Lindekemalemolen’s restoration, Brussels takes another step toward integrating its historical past with sustainable urban development, ensuring that this cherished landmark continues to serve future generations.
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