Kullmanns Mølle (the windmill in Gudhjem)
Kullmanns Mølle in Gudhjem is one of the most distinctive landmarks on Bornholm and a symbol of the town. Situated on a hill, it rises above the harbor, and with its impressive structure and the largest windmill sails in Denmark, it is both a remarkable piece of technical heritage and a popular attraction. Today, it serves a cultural and commercial role, combining history with modern use of the space.
Gudhjem Mølle, also known as Kullmanns Mølle
On Bornholm, Dutch-style windmills are the most common. They are characterized by a fixed brick or wooden tower and a rotating cap, which can be turned into the wind using a special mechanism. Thanks to their solid construction and larger capacity, they were more efficient than earlier post mills.
Current Condition and Use
The mill is owned by the insurance company Bornholms Brand.
Use: Variable. The lower floors of the mill are used, for example, as a shop and café. The interior is also often used for exhibitions of local crafts or cultural events.
Maintenance and restoration: New sails were installed in 1993. In 1998, the cap of the mill and the wind rose (the mechanism that automatically turns the cap into the wind) were renovated.
History
Year of construction: 1893. The mill was built by Matts Kullmann for his son, Christian Kullmann.
Initial construction and equipment: The milling company Rasmussen from Odense carried out the work. The cap was supplied by the Frichs company from Aarhus. The full complex originally included a residence, warehouse, bakery, engine house, and a small power station.
Operation: The Kullmann family ran the mill until 1944. In 1944, it was taken over by the grain company Asmussen of Copenhagen. The sails continued to turn in the wind until 1959. In 1961, the mill was acquired by Bornholms Korn, but milling operations ceased in 1962.
The machinery was removed in 1965.
Architecture and Special Features
Wingspan: approximately 24 meters – making it the largest traditional windmill in Denmark in terms of sail span.
Materials and construction: brick tower with a gallery (a circular platform allowing access to the sails).
Location
| Gudhjem Mølle (Kullmanns Mølle) | |
| Møllebakken 4, 3760 Gudhjem, Bornholm, DK | |
| The mill stands high above the town, on a hill with wide panoramic views. |
