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Begijnhof Amsterdam
The Begijnhof Amsterdam is a courtyard located in the old city center. It's a popular tourist attraction because he gives the visitor a chance to see the unique architecture of Amsterdam. It was originally founded by nuns and acted as an old folks home.
Begijnhof Amsterdam
It is one of the oldest courtyards in the city and was founded during the Middle Ages. Although the original buildings are no longer there it still has the same character it did during the 14th century. The façades have changed over the years but the structures behind are quite old. The whole area was once surrounded by water. As a matter of fact, the whole area is actually lower than the surrounding city.
One of the feature homes in the Begijnhof Amsterdam is a restored wooden house that was built during the 1500s. As you walk around the courtyard you'll have the opportunity to see how the architecture on the façades has changed over the years. There are approximately 140 homes in the courtyard.
During the Protestant Reformation this area of the city was the only place that remained Roman Catholic. The church however became the property of the English Reformed Church. Catholics continue to have services in the homes surrounding the church. In 1971 the last nun to live in the area passed away ending close to 500 years of Catholic history in the Begijnhof Amsterdam.