Begijnhof

The Begijnhof of Amsterdam is one of the most fascinating and historically rich corners of the city. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this complex is an oasis of tranquility that transports visitors back in time, offering a unique insight into the life of the Beguines, religious women who lived in autonomous communities. Founded in the 14th century, the Begijnhof is one of the oldest courtyards in the city and the only inner courtyard that has maintained its original level, being situated about one meter below the modern city’s street level. This historic place was originally inhabited by Beguines, Catholic women who lived in communities without taking monastic vows, dedicating themselves to prayer and charitable works. The Beguines were known for their independence and their crucial role in medieval society, providing healthcare and social services at a time when such services were scarce. The Begijnhof is surrounded by about thirty houses, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, although some have medieval foundations. These houses, with their characteristic stepped gables and sloping roofs, create an atmosphere from another time, immersed in a surprising quiet compared to the chaos of the surrounding city. Among the houses, the Het Houten Huis stands out, one of the oldest wooden houses in Amsterdam, dating back to 1528. This house is a rare survivor from a period when most of the city’s wooden structures were destroyed by fires and replaced with brick buildings. At the center of the courtyard is a clandestine church, known as the Begijnhof Chapel, dating back to the 17th century. During the Reformation period, when Catholic worship was prohibited in the Netherlands, the Beguines built this hidden chapel to continue practicing their faith. The interior of the chapel is richly decorated, with paintings, statues, and a series of stained glass windows that narrate the life of Jesus and the saints. The church continues to be an active place of worship and offers an atmosphere of peace and reflection for visitors. Another notable building in the Begijnhof is the Engelse Kerk, an Anglican church dating back to 1392, which was granted to the Anglican community of Amsterdam in 1607. The church is still used for worship and represents a symbol of the city’s long tradition of religious tolerance. The Engelse Kerk is also the place where Pieter Pauw’s Bible, one of the first Bibles translated into Dutch, was discovered. The life of the Beguines is documented through various historical sources that recount their commitment to caring for the sick, educating the young, and maintaining their properties. The Beguines lived a life of simplicity and devotion, but also of great independence, at a time when options for women were limited. Their autonomous lifestyle and community organization represent an early example of female empowerment. Today, the Begijnhof is open to the public and offers a rare opportunity to explore an intact piece of medieval history in the heart of a modern metropolis. Visitors can stroll along the cobbled paths, admire the ancient houses, and visit the churches, immersing themselves in an atmosphere of serenity and reflection. The site is also a point of interest for scholars and historians, who continue to study and interpret the numerous documents and artifacts related to the Beguine community.