Molinos de Viento was founded in 1980 out of a passion to convey Spanish language & culture in Amsterdam. Founded by the Spanish Pilar Guillen and taken over by her son Michael Kabela, Molinos is a family business which has grown into much more than a Spanish language school. It is the institute for Spanish language & culture in Amsterdam.
For over 40 years we have been providing quality classes but we are also known for our warm atmosphere that we have created in our own building and loyal students. Everyone is welcome to learn Spanish, but also to get a taste of Spanish and/or Latin American culture.
Our teachers are native speakers, coming from Spain or Latin America themselves. They have a lot of experience teaching Spanish, but are also passionate and enthusiastic about teaching you more than just the language. At Molinos we organize not only classes, but also events.
You can join us for special culture workshops, cooking courses, salsa lessons, drinks, taster classes and grammar boosters, among other things. Besides being a Spanish language school, we are also a close-knit community. With us you are not only a student, but we listen to your personal story. You know us & we know you.
Since 1980, thousands of people have learned the Spanish language with us. We do everything we can to fulfill the mission that our founder Pilar started: to create a piece of Spain in Amsterdam and show everyone how beautiful the Spanish language and culture are. ♥
Our team
Michael Kabela
Managing director
For over 20 years, Michael has been leading the language institute founded by his Spanish mother, doing so with passion and dedication. His mission is to make the Spanish language and culture accessible through outstanding teachers, in a place where everyone feels truly welcome. Always curious about your personal reason for learning Spanish, he’ll be delighted to show you around Molinos de Viento.
Lola Martínez Cabrera
Head teacher/Jefe de estudios
Lola has been teaching at Molinos de Viento for more than 30 years and is the didactic heart of our school. As the creative mind behind our lesson programmes, she has mastered the art of teaching like no one else. A remarkable talent with a Sevillian heart of gold, she continues to inspire students year after year.
Yara Mens
Team Manager and Business Coordinator
Yara is the organisational driving force behind Molinos de Viento. As course adviser, she helps you choose the learning path that’s right for you and is always happy to answer your questions. She also keeps our social media lively and informative. A Dutchwoman with the heart of a Latina, Yara ensures everyone feels instantly at home and looks forward to coming back.
Larissa Smits
Office Manager
Larissa greets you in the morning with a big smile. She’s the organisational anchor of our school, managing everything behind the scenes, answering practical questions, and assisting with invoices, course planning, and materials. As a Spanish learner herself, she knows exactly what our students experience. With Larissa around, you’re always in good hands.
María Ramos Jordán
Teacher
María brings a wealth of teaching experience and can work with any level. Her broad cultural knowledge and passion for both literature and grammar make her shine in our advanced courses and themed lessons. An outstanding educator from Spain, she brings depth and inspiration to every class.
Cristina Jiménez García
Teacher
Cristina, from Sevilla, is always cheerful and dedicated. Her infectious enthusiasm draws students into her passion for Spanish, while her lessons are creative, engaging, and full of energy. She knows how to keep learners motivated and connected, time and again.
Mary Paz
Teacher
Mary Paz, from Mexico, has been teaching our youngest students for many years with great dedication. Using games, songs, and plenty of joy, she makes sure her pupils look forward to class and discover how much fun Spanish can be.
Andrea Mendez
Teacher
Andrea, from Colombia, brings passion and energy to every lesson. Her enthusiasm will have you speaking Spanish before you know it. Lessons with Andrea are lively, personal, and tailored to your needs. With a background in psychology and years of experience, she knows exactly how to help you progress. And you might even end your class with a dance, as she’s also a dancer.
Francesc Montoro
Teacher
Based in his hometown of Valencia, Francesc taught in the Netherlands for many years and now offers online private lessons. His classes are structured, practical, and enjoyable. With his friendly approach and extensive experience, he helps you achieve a professional level of Spanish without it ever feeling dry or overly formal, perfect for anyone serious about workplace Spanish.
Betania Almenara
Teacher
With Betania, you feel at ease straight away. Her lessons are cheerful, dynamic, and full of surprises, blending clear explanations with creative activities. She creates a warm, safe environment where there’s plenty of laughter and learning, and students love her openness and spontaneity.
Vivian Rojas
Teacher
Vivian radiates warmth and calm, making her lessons a comfortable place to learn. With endless patience and personal attention, she helps students progress at their own pace. She listens closely to your needs and builds your confidence to speak Spanish, making her the perfect guide for anyone nervous about learning a new language.
Marta Latorre Rubio
Teacher
Marta is both an artist and a much-loved teacher. Her positive attitude makes everyone feel welcome, while her creative background brings originality to her lessons. She combines her love of teaching and art in our popular Español con Arte courses.
Sofía Durán Stone
Teacher
Originally from Mexico, Sofía has lived all over the world, bringing a global perspective and rich experience to her teaching. With a background in both education and business, she blends professionalism with approachability. Whether in a group class or a corporate training, her lessons are clear, goal-oriented, and adapted to each student’s needs.
Lorena Riveira
Teacher
Lorena, from Argentina, has taught everything from corporate courses to private and group classes. She teaches both Spanish and English, giving her valuable insight into how languages are learned naturally and clearly. Her patience, adaptability, and attentive approach ensure students feel heard and make rapid progress.
¿Por qué Molinos?
Warm Spanish atmosphere
Enjoy personal attention in an authentically Spanish environment.
Historic building
Located in a historic building in the heart of Amsterdam.
Since 1980!
The oldest and most well-known Spanish language school in Amsterdam.
Great Spanish teachers
Skillful native speakers with didactic expertise.
Personal course plan
Helpful secretarial team for all your queries and guidance.
Flexible switching
It's always possible to switch to another group.
Reschedule a missed class
Catch up in a parallel group when available.
Closing lesson
Enjoy a nice wine and some tapas during the final lesson!
