Begijnhof — Attraction in Amsterdam

We visited Begijnhof a few times over the years when spending time in Amsterdam. Here you find a courtyard and enclosure of buildings with a history that reaches back to the 14th century and enjoyed seeing the attractions there. Opening hours are 8am to 5pm daily.

There are two entrances, from the south and east side of Begijnhof. The courtyard is peaceful, tranquil and a nice place to escape the bustle of the streets just beyond the complex.

Note: The houses that make up the interior of Begijnhof serve as residences for single woman, as such, there are requests to remain quiet during your visit.

Within the courtyard, you will find a small Catholic chapel that you can enter and view. Just across from the chapel is the Reformed English Church which boasts an enjoyable Medieval tower. Next to the chapel is Het Houten Huis (Wooden House), one of only two wooden-front buildings from the 15th-century which remain in the city centre of Amsterdam.

The two gates which you use to enter Begihnhof are historically important and worth taking a look. There is also a simple yet nice sculpture of Beguine next to the English Reformed church. Have a look around for 15-20 minutes and then continue with your intended sightseeing in the area.

Note: Amsterdam Museum is just around the corner and can be easily combined with a visit...

The Begijnhof is a hidden courtyard and one of the most tranquil and historic spots in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It dates back to the 14th century and was originally a sanctuary for the Beguines, a group of devout Catholic women who lived semi-monastic lives without taking formal religious vows.

Key Features:

Historical Significance:

The Begijnhof is one of the oldest inner courts in Amsterdam, first mentioned in 1346.

It was a safe haven for women who wanted to live religiously dedicated lives while still maintaining their independence.

Architecture:

The courtyard is surrounded by traditional Dutch houses, including the Houten Huys (Wooden House), the oldest surviving house in Amsterdam, dating back to the 1520s.

The buildings have charming gabled facades and are well-preserved examples of Amsterdam's architectural heritage.

Churches:

The English Reformed Church, located within the Begijnhof, dates back to the 15th century and is still in use today.

There is also a hidden Catholic chapel, established after public Catholic worship was forbidden during the Reformation.

Atmosphere:

Despite being in the bustling city center, the Begijnhof is a peaceful retreat with manicured gardens, cobblestone paths, and a serene...

The Begijnhof was founded during the Middle Age. The ancient, restored wooden house is one of the two wooden houses still existing in Amsterdam. After Protestant takeover of 1578, the Begijnhof was the only Roman Catholic institution to be allowed to remain in existence. Today there are two churches, the Catholic Houten Huys and the English Reformed Church.

It's not the individual buildings that are interesting, but the atmosphere of the place. The secret Catholic church is spectacular. Amsterdam's oldest house is in very good condition, although one wonders how fire-prone a city like this must have been when fires were burning everywhere and all the houses were made of wood. (A fire caused the decision in to make the houses in Amsterdam)

Today there is no Beguine living on the estate. The last, "Sister Antonia", whose original name was Agatha Kaptein, died on 23 May 1971 at...