Hotels near Begijnhof

The Begijnhof (Beguinage) is a 13th-century walled courtyard founded by Margaret of Constantinople for beguines - lay religious women who lived in semi-monastic communities without taking permanent vows. White-washed houses with red roofs surround a grass courtyard planted with daffodils every spring (March-April). UNESCO recognises Belgian beguinages as collective World Heritage.

Today Benedictine nuns live in some of the houses; the Beguinage Museum (EUR 4) recreates a 17th-century beguine's home. Entry to the courtyard is free, daily 6.30am to 6.30pm. Silence is requested; the gates close at dusk. The chapel of Our Lady of Spermalie holds afternoon mass.

Pro Tip: Visit at 8am or after 5pm when day-trippers leave - the courtyard becomes silent and the white houses glow in low sun. March/April daffodils are unbelievable; even off-season the bare gravel courtyard is striking.