bottelaars

Bottelaars are a type of rural settlement found primarily in the Netherlands. They are typically small clusters of homes, barns, and other buildings that are centered around a storage building for wine or other beverages. The name "Bottelaars" literally translates to "barrel riders" or "barrel owners" in Dutch.

The traditional function of Bottelaars was to store and supply wine and other beverages to the local population. The settlement would typically be located near a major trade road or highway, allowing for easy transportation of goods. In addition to the storage building, a Bottelaar often included a home for the owner or caretaker, as well as a small shop or office.

Bottelaars were commonly found in the Dutch countryside during the 16th to 18th centuries, particularly in areas with a strong wine industry. As the wine industry declined, many Bottelaars were abandoned or converted into other types of dwellings. Today, some Bottelaars have been restored and preserved as historical landmarks or as part of rural heritage projects.

The physical structure of a Bottelaar was typically simple, consisting of a large storage building with a typical width of 4-6 meters. The building would be designed to withstand the elements and provide secure storage for valuable commodities. In addition to the storage building, the settlement might include a small house, a barn, and other outbuildings. The materials used in the construction of a Bottelaar varied, but often included brick, stone, or wooden framing.