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Begijnhof is named after the Beguins, a group of women coming
to Amsterdam at the beginning of the 12th century to accomplish
social assistance at first. Years after, the Beguin women
formed a non-religious sisterhood which didn't involve any
life-time commitments or seclusion. To be part of the sisterhood
would only require a celibate vow, which could have been broken
at any moment but equaling exclusion. In some documents it
was stated that women were entitled to becom Beguins only
after 18 months of life in the Beguinage.
Although the Catholic sisterhood no longer exists, Begijnhof
remained the home of single women who adopt a discreet and
peaceful way of life. Visitors are asked not to disturb them!
Begijnhof is the only reminiscence of the dwellings and seems
to be located away from noise and night life on purpose. On
the walls of the buildings in Begijnhof, visitors can read
impressive wall plaques with biblical references.
Guests are welcome to Begijnhof every day between 9a.m. and
1p.m.
Begijnhof Address
HH Joannes en Ursula (Chapel of the Beguinage)
Begijnhof 30
Amsterdam
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