Name: Begijnhof
Address: Begijnhof 1, 1012 WS Amsterdam, Netherlands
Telephone: 020 622 1918
Rating: 4.5

Former women's religious community, with houses & a serene courtyard dating to the 14th century.

Efteling

Provided by Google

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While the Begijnhof was originally exclusively Catholic, a condition was imposed in the 16th century that the chapel had to be shared with Protestants. However, the Beguines themselves remained Catholic.

Religious Shift

The Begijnhof is home to Amsterdam's oldest wooden house, dating back to around 1528. It's one of only two wooden houses remaining in the city center, as wooden construction was later banned due to fire risk.

Oldest House

The oldest house in Amsterdam, located in the Begijnhof, has the address Begijnhof 34.

Address of the Oldest House

The Begijnhof was built for Beguines, women who lived in a religious community but did not take formal vows like nuns. They lived independently and supported themselves.

Inhabitants

Despite being located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Begijnhof offers a remarkable sense of peace and tranquility, providing a quiet escape from the bustling city.

Peaceful Haven

Within the Begijnhof is the English Reformed Church, which was originally a clandestine Catholic church during a time when Catholicism was prohibited in the Netherlands.

Hidden Church

The last Beguine living in the Begijnhof passed away in 1971, marking the end of an era for this unique community.

Final Beguine

Begijnhof

The Begijnhof in Amsterdam, a tranquil courtyard oasis, distinguishes itself through its historical association with the Beguines, lay women who lived communally but did not take formal religious vows. Unlike convents, the Begijnhof allowed residents to retain personal property and leave at will. Uniquely, it is situated below street level, a consequence of Amsterdam's sinking terrain and repeated elevation of surrounding streets. The English Reformed Church, located within the Begijnhof, stands out as a church within a Catholic-leaning enclave, a result of the Alteration when Protestantism became dominant. One of Amsterdam's two wooden houses, dating back to the 15th century, is found here, a testament to the city's architectural history. The Begijnhof's chapel, originally Catholic, was confiscated during the Reformation, highlighting the complex religious shifts in Dutch history. The last Beguine died in 1971, marking the end of an era, though the Begijnhof continues to provide housing, primarily for single women.

Introduction

Beguinages, such as Ter Hooie, offered single women in the Low Countries, including areas that would become part of the Netherlands, opportunities to lead religious lives from the thirteenth century onward. Beguines did not take permanent vows and could leave their community, distinguishing them from nuns and religious orders. While the provided texts do not explicitly mention the Begijnhof in Amsterdam, they shed light on the broader context of beguine communities in the Low Countries, which helps to understand the beguine lifestyle.

Formal beguinages began emerging in the thirteenth century, with the earliest ones inspired by papal approval of the beguine life in 1230–33. These institutions provided a space for women to engage in contemplation, prayer, and work, such as labor or teaching. Beguine communities varied in size, with some housing hundreds of women. Though the texts don't detail the size or specific activities within the Amsterdam Begijnhof, they illustrate the range of possibilities within these communities.

Beguine communities often possessed properties and played an integral part in the cultural life of their regions. The provided texts highlight the presence of beguinages in the Dutch-speaking parts of what is now Belgium, suggesting a similar cultural context for beguinages in the Netherlands. While the specific history of the Amsterdam Begijnhof isn't detailed here, the texts offer a comprehensive survey of beguine institutions in the southern Low Countries between about 1200 and 1565, providing a valuable backdrop for understanding the beguine lifestyle and its manifestations in various communities.

Beguine Lifestyle

The Begijnhof in Amsterdam showcases architectural uniqueness through its historical design and serene atmosphere. The chapel, Het Begijnhofkapel, stands as a focal point, reflecting the architectural styles prevalent during its construction and subsequent renovations. The building's design incorporates elements that promote quiet contemplation, aligning with the Begijnhof's original purpose as a sanctuary for religious women. The architecture emphasizes simplicity and functionality, evident in the layout and use of space within the chapel and surrounding buildings.

The Begijnhof's architectural character is further defined by its enclosed courtyard, a design feature that enhances privacy and tranquility. The buildings surrounding the courtyard display a uniformity in style, reflecting a cohesive architectural vision. The use of traditional Dutch building materials and techniques contributes to the area's unique aesthetic. The Begijnhof's architecture creates a distinct sense of place, setting it apart from the surrounding urban environment. The careful preservation of these architectural elements ensures that the Begijnhof retains its historical charm and continues to offer a unique architectural experience. The integration of green spaces within the complex further enhances the architectural design, creating a harmonious balance between the built environment and nature. The Begijnhof's architectural uniqueness lies in its ability to transport visitors to a different time, offering a glimpse into Amsterdam's rich history and architectural heritage.

Architectural Uniqueness

Founded in 1346 as a lay religious sisterhood, the Begijnhof's origins trace back to Amsterdam's medieval period. Originally established for single women, it provided a communal living arrangement centered around religious devotion. The location marks a significant point in Amsterdam's historical and religious landscape, evolving from its early purpose to its current status as private residences open to the public.

The Begijnhof played a role in the religious shifts that defined Amsterdam. The "Alteration" of 1578, which transitioned Amsterdam from Catholic to Calvinist rule, led to the confiscation of the Begijnhof chapel. It was later repurposed for English and Scots Presbyterians, evidenced by the 1607 inscription above the door.

Within the Begijnhof stands Het Houten Huis, one of Amsterdam's two surviving wooden houses. Predating the 1521 ban on wooden structures following devastating fires in the 15th century, it offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of medieval Amsterdam. The Begijnhof's narrow alleyways and proximity to significant historical sites, such as the Amsterdam Museum (once an orphanage), further connect it to the city's medieval roots and subsequent development. The statue of a Beguine in her distinctive headdress, the falie, stands beside the church. The Begijnhof is where the 16th-century story of The City of Tears begins, with an old secret and a murder.

Medieval Origins

Cornelia Arens, a revered Beguine nun who died on October 14, 1654, is a prominent figure in the history of Amsterdam's Begijnhof. Her story adds a unique layer to the historical significance of this tranquil enclave. Arens's last wish was to be buried in the gutter rather than inside the "desecrated" chapel, reflecting the complex religious dynamics of the time. Legend has it that when she was buried in the chapel against her will, her coffin miraculously reappeared in the gutter the next day, a phenomenon that allegedly repeated itself twice. Ultimately, she was laid to rest in the gutter, honoring her wishes.

This tale underscores the Begijnhof's unique position as the only Catholic institution in Amsterdam that remained operational after the Alteratie of 1578, when other Catholic churches were forced to convert to Protestantism. The Begijnhof's houses were privately owned by the Beguines, which afforded them a degree of protection. The courtyard where Arens is said to be buried provides a tangible link to this history. The story of Cornelia Arens continues to be a captivating part of the Begijnhof's narrative, illustrating the enduring spirit and independent nature of its inhabitants. Her grave, located near the lawn in the courtyard, serves as a reminder of her devout life and the intriguing legends that surround her burial.

Begijnhof

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Religious Shift

Oldest House

Address of the Oldest House

Inhabitants

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