Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city center lies a hidden gem that offers a serene escape: Begijnhof, a historical courtyard in Amsterdam. This courtyard exudes a timeless charm, inviting visitors to step back into the city’s rich past and experience a rare tranquility. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, the Begijnhof is a must-visit destination in Amsterdam. Here is everything you need to know about this enchanting site.

The origins of the Begijnhof

The Begijnhof dates back to the late 14th century, making it one of the oldest inner courts in Amsterdam. Originally founded as a sanctuary for the Beguines—pious, single women who lived a semi-monastic life without taking formal vows—this enclosed courtyard provided a safe environment for women dedicated to religious and charitable work. Unlike nuns, the Beguines retained some independence, allowing them to own property and leave the community if they chose to marry. The houses are still inhabited by single women without children, but these are not Beguines.

Architectural highlights
Over the centuries, the Begijnhof has evolved architecturally, while still maintaining its historical essence. The courtyard is lined with traditional gabled houses, some of which are the oldest in Amsterdam. The most notable is the Houten Huys (Wooden House), built around 1528, which stands as one of the city’s oldest wooden houses and one of the last remaining examples of medieval timber construction.

Key attractions of the Begijnhof

Engelse Kerk (English Church)
At the heart of the Begijnhof lies the Engelse Kerk (English Church), a historical church with roots dating back to the community’s founding. Used by English-speaking worshipers since the late 16th century, the church is renowned for its beautiful stained glass windows and serene interior. It remains an active place of worship and hosts regular services and events. Outside of church services, the English Church is used as a stage for classical (choir) music. Recitals and chamber music ensembles can often be heard.

Hidden Catholic chapel
During the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, Catholicism was banned in the Netherlands due to all kinds of abuses in the Roman Catholic Church for centuries.  The Beguines built a secret chapel within their courtyard to continue practicing their faith. This hidden Catholic chapel, known as the Begijnhofkapel, features beautiful religious art and offers a glimpse into the clandestine worship practices of the past.

Houten Huys (wooden house)
The Houten Huys on number 34 is a must-see for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts. Originally all houses were made of wood. However, due to a fire in the 18th century, when all but one house had burned down, the houses were rebuilt with brick. Only this house remained standing and is one of the two oldest wooden houses in Amsterdam. It represents the city’s medieval history and resilience, having survived fires and urban development over the centuries.

Visiting the Begijnhof

The Begijnhof is conveniently located in the heart of Amsterdam, just a short walk from popular landmarks like Dam Square and the Kalverstraat shopping district. From the busy Kalverstraat you can walk straight into the Begijnhof. The entrance is somewhat discreet, marked by a door on the Gedempte Begijnensloot street. The gate dates from 1574 and has a stone depicting Saint Ursula, the patroness of the Amsterdam Beguines.

Tips for visitors:

– Opening Hours: The Begijnhof is open daily, from 10.00 – 18.00. Visitors are encouraged to respect the privacy of residents by maintaining silence and adhering to visiting hours.
– Guided tours: While entry is free, guided tours are available for those interested in a more in-depth exploration of the site’s history and significance. Groups may not exceed 12 people.
– Photography: Photography is allowed, but visitors should be mindful not to disturb the peaceful atmosphere or intrude on the privacy of residents.

Other attractions

While visiting the Begijnhof, consider exploring nearby cultural and historical sites such as the Royal Palace, the Flower Market, the Museum of the Canals and the Amsterdam Museum (please note Amsterdam Museum is temporary located at Amstel 51 in H’ART Museum).

Historical courtyards in the Jordaan
Karthuizerhofje in the Karthuizerstraat once housed a monastery. In 1602, the monastery yard became a graveyard where plague deaths were buried. In 1650, the courtyard was built to house widows. St. Andrieshofje on the Egelantiersgracht was founded in 1614 for Catholic elderly women, and it became later under the care of the ministry of the Begijnhof. Suyckerhofje at the Lindengracht was built in 1670 and intended for women of the Protestant house.

Our Lord in the Attic Museum
Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic Museum) is a former secret church in the city center of Amsterdam on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal. During the Reformation it was forbidden to practice the Catholic faith in public, so Catholics had to look for alternatives and celebrate their Mass in hidden house churches. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder is located in a 17th century canal house and could fit as many as one hundred and fifty people. The Catholic churchgoers entered through a side door in the Heintje Hoekssteeg, from there stairs lead to living areas and kitchens and end in a complete church in the attic.

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