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Beguinage Antwerp: A Tranquil Historical Sanctuary

Discover Antwerp's Beguinage: a UNESCO site offering a tranquil escape into a historic community of independent religious women.

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The Beguinage in Antwerp is a captivating historical site dating back to the 13th century, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Originally a community for Beguines, religious women who lived without formal vows, it features picturesque whitewashed houses, cobblestone paths, and lush gardens, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it stands as a testament to the Beguine movement's enduring legacy.

A brief summary to Beguinage

  • Rodestraat 39, Antwerp, 2000, BE

Local tips

  • Visit on a sunny day to enhance the enchanting experience as you stroll through this peaceful oasis.
  • Respect the silence of this historic site; take your time to relax, leave worries behind, and enjoy moments of peace.
  • Check out the multilingual explanation panels at the entrance for insights into the history of the Beguinage.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Cathedral of Our Lady or the Rubens House for a full day of exploring Antwerp's rich history and culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Grote Markt (main square), walk north towards the Melkmarkt. Continue onto the Oude Beurs, then turn left onto the Wolstraat. Turn right onto Rodestraat. The Beguinage entrance will be on your right. This is a walk of approximately 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Antwerp Central Station, take tram number 9 towards 'Kiel'. Get off at the 'Hendrik Conscienceplein' stop. From there, walk towards the Hendrik Conscienceplein square, and continue straight until you reach the intersection with Rodestraat. Turn left onto Rodestraat, and the Beguinage will be on your left. A single tram fare is around €2.50.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Antwerp Central Station to the Beguinage is a short ride. Taxi fares in Antwerp start at approximately €5.00, with a cost of €2.40 per kilometer. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the trip, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Beguinage

Nestled in the heart of Antwerp, the Beguinage, or Begijnhof, is a captivating step back in time. Founded around 1240, the Beguinage was originally located outside the city walls. Constant attacks led to its relocation within the city, where it became a sanctuary for Beguines – religious women who dedicated their lives to God but lived independently, without taking formal vows. Unlike nuns, Beguines were free to leave the community at any time, making it a unique and progressive movement for its time. As you enter through the monumental Baroque gate on Rodestraat, topped with a statue of Saint Begge, the city's noise fades away, replaced by an atmosphere of tranquility. The Beguinage features a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with charming, well-preserved brick houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. These whitewashed houses, often adorned with climbing plants, surround a central garden, creating a peaceful oasis. The Beguinage has faced a turbulent history, including destruction during the French Revolution, when it was deconsecrated and partially demolished. However, the Beguines persevered, and the site was eventually restored. The last Beguine of Antwerp, Virginie Laeremans, passed away in 1986, but the Beguinage remains a testament to their unique way of life. Today, the houses are inhabited by ordinary people who carefully preserve the historical character of the site. A visit to the Beguinage offers a chance to explore a unique architectural complex and immerse yourself in a serene environment. It's a place to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings, reflect in solitude, and learn about the fascinating history of the Beguines.

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