Uncategorized,  January 4, 2017

Uncategorized,  May 3, 2014

Begijnhof.

The Begijnhof in Amsterdam is the only almshouses founded in medieval Amsterdam and located within the Singel. It is unclear when the Begijnhof was founded. Originally the Begijnhof was entirely surrounded by water (the Damrak, the Spui and Begijnensloot) with the only access a gate at Begijnensteeg (with a bridge over the Begijnensloot). It was more like a monastery, although the Beguines had more freedom than nuns in a convent, the Beguines laid like a vow of chastity, but were allowed to leave the court at any time to get married.