Noordbroek: Churches, Organs and Mill History

Noordbroek brings together buildings and technical landmarks from different centuries. The Hervormde Kerk dates back to the early 14th century; De Noordstar and the Noordermolen illustrate two different purposes of historic milling technology. This provides a clear thematic guide for planning your trip: churches, organ history and mills can each be explored as separate themes. The two churches also tell different stories. The Doopsgezinde Kerk is now used as a residence, while the Hervormde Kerk stands out above all for its Romanesque-Gothic style and the organ by Arp Schnitger.

Churches: distinguishing construction dates and uses

The Doopsgezinde Kerk is a simple hall building with pointed-arch windows set in recessed panels. The term “hall building” draws attention to its simple form; the windows add a clearly defined architectural detail. The church has not been used as a church since around 1950 and is now used as a residence. It is therefore not an active public church and should not be included in your plans as a regular church visit.

The Hervormde Kerk Noordbroek was built in the early 14th century and is considered a highlight of Romanesque-Gothic architecture in Groningen. The term “Romanesque-Gothic” combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural forms; it classifies the church by style, not just by age. Its organ was built by Arp Schnitger in 1696. The construction date and the organ’s year point to two distinctly different historical periods: the building’s medieval origins and an instrument from the late 17th century. Visitors interested in sacred architecture will find two specific points of reference at this church, which are easy to consider separately.

Two mills, two technical purposes

De Noordstar stands on the western side of Noordbroek. It was built in 1849 as an octagonal grain and hulling mill. The name combines grain processing with the hulling of grain; De Noordstar’s form and dual function are therefore both central to its identity. A construction detail that is unusual in the region is the placement of the millstones at gallery level. This feature adds a specific clue about the mill’s construction to its octagonal shape. If you are interested in mill design, the shape and location of the millstones offer different points of reference.

The Noordermolen was built in 1805 and is one of the oldest surviving polder mills in the province of Groningen. Its screw once regulated the water level in the Noordermolenkolonie. An electric pumping station now performs this task; however, the mill can resume its function if needed. Comparing it with De Noordstar makes the difference between their purposes clear: grain milling and hulling are central to the former, while the latter regulates the water level. The Noordermolen also turns almost every weekend. If this activity is important to your plans, check the latest information about when it will turn in advance.

A starting point for the cycling route

If you would like to include the “Ode aan de molen” cycling route in your travel plans, consider the parking lot behind the church in Noordbroek as a starting point.

Discover more destinations: Zuidbroek, Tripscompagnie.

Return to the main travel overview: Menterwolde.