Things to do in Bruges – Visit the Begijnhof

Founded in the year 1245 by Margaret of Constantinople, Countess of Flanders, the Begijnhof in Bruges – a walled neighborhood that today remains completely intact – is one of the city’s main attractions. Established as a residential community for lay women (beguines) of the Catholic Church and officially known as the Prinselijk Begijnhof Ten Wijngaerde, the neighborhood is now home to the Monastery of the Vineyard (Monasterium De Wijngaard). The grounds are open to the public and a visit to the property is a nice way to spend a little time while in Bruges.

Begijnhof Gate Bruges Belgium

Cross the bridge and enter the Begijnhof through the arched gateway – inscribed with the date 1776

Begijnhof Paths Bruges Belgium

and enjoy a stroll along the wide paths bordering the tree-dotted lawn.  

The buildings you’ll see in the Begijnhof are:

Begijnhof Houses Bruges Belgium

Row Houses – dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries, these gabled, white houses (thirty in all) still serve as private residences;

Church of the Begijnhof Church of the Begijnhof Bruges

The Begijnhofkerk clearly visible from across the Minnewater (outside of the Begijnhof), the small ‘Begijnhof Church’ dedicated to Saint Elizabeth of Hungary was built in the 17th century to replace the previous 13th-century community church destroyed by fire in 1584;

Begijnhof Museum Exterior Bruges Belgium

and Het Museum Begijnhuisje – situated in one of the 17th century row houses and furnished with historical items, the small museum of ‘The Little Beguine House’ provides visitors a glimpse into the life of the former residents.

Getting there:

The Begijnhof of Bruges is located at Begijnhof 30; a 3-minute walk from the Half Moon Brewery.

Ticket info:

Adult Admission (Begijnhof + Church) = Free

Adult Admission (Begijnhof Museum) = 2.00€

Adult Admission (Ages 65 and Over; Begijnhof Museum) = 1.50€

Child Admission (Ages 8-12; Begijnhof Museum) = 1.00€

Child Admission (Ages 7 and Under; Begijnhof Museum) = Free

Note: Keep in mind that this remains a residential community and visitors are asked to respect the privacy of the nuns and the tranquility of their neighborhood.

Lock Keepers House Bruges Belgium

Travel tip:  a second arched entryway is located near the Lock Keeper’s House (Sashuis) at the southern end of the Begijnhof.

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  1. By How to Spend 24 Hours in Bruges, Belgium - Short Holidays and Getaways 9 Jun ’17 at 2:22 am

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