The windmill at Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Lombeek in Pajottenland is something of a mecca for fans of Kapitein Zeppos. Much of the location work for the first series was shot at this picturesque location. The millhouse was used as the Captain's residence and the mill itself is seen in many sequences. For the two 1968 series, the production unit returned to Pajottenland, Zeppos retaining his distinctive home - but this time he would share it with new wife, Ariane Despinal.

The mill is a wooden postmill which was built to grind corn in the 14th Century. It goes by the name Hertboommolen (Hertboom mill), which refers to the adjacent pastureland. Pajottenland is an argricultural area which was reknowned for its abundance of watermills and windmills, the latter of which at one time completely dominated the skyline. In recent years, however, the windmills were removed from proper operation as farming techniques evolved. Sadly, many mills in the area have been demolished or have simply collapsed due to neglect.

Fortunately, the mill at Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Lombeek has recently been totally restored, having fallen into disrepair. The photograph above shows the mill as it was directly before restoration work began.

After a great deal of work, which included the complete dismantling of the mill, the restoration and manufacture of parts and the ultimate reconstruction, the project managers were delighted to re-open the windmill on 1st December 2002. The mill is now fully operational - and once again stands proud on the skyline of Pajottenland.