Dec 1, 2009 0
Begijnhof Amsterdam
Right in the center of bustling Amsterdam one can find an oasis of peace known as the Begijnhof — an inner courtyard established in the 14th century.
It was founded for the Beguines, members of a lay Catholic sisterhood. Nowadays there are no Beguines left, but the rules of this private property still only allow single women to live in the houses surrounding the courtyard.
This picturesque spot with its centuries-old houses and two chapels is one of Amsterdam’s favorite tourist sightseeing destinations. However, this has also caused a lot of tension between the Begijnhof and the City of Amsterdam.
The organization that runs the place says the peaceful nature of the private courtyard is compromised by hordes of tourists, some of whom have been loud and intrusive. But the city wants the Begijnhof to remain open to visitors.
