Begijnhof Chapel, Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the beguines, devout Catholic women who remained unmarried, may have lost their original church to the rise of Calvinism, which led to the establishment of the current English Reformed Church in the city. However, in accordance with the terms of the 'Alteratie', which was then part of the larger conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism in Europe, they were granted the opportunity to discreetly conduct Mass in the secret Catholic Begijnhof Chapel, which was set up in a house situated directly across from their former church. Initially consecrated to Saint John the Baptist, it was subsequently rededicated to Saint Ursula, the patron saint of the beguines. This quaint little chapel is still in use today, adorned with rather sentimental religious paintings, a splendid altar featuring a depiction of the Last Supper, and an array of other religious artworks and relics.

The adjacent peaceful courtyard, which dates back to 1346, served as the residence for beguines who led a semi-monastic life in service to the community (the last beguine passed away in 1970). Nowadays, the little gabled houses in Begijnhof, constructed between the 14th and 17th centuries, provide homes for elderly retired women, so it's advisable to be respectful of their privacy. During springtime, the Begijnhof lawn is adorned with a colorful carpet of daffodils and crocuses, enhancing the tranquil and spiritual ambiance of the place.

Tip:
For those interested, you can find Het Houten Huys ("The Wooden House") just across the courtyard's lawn. This remarkable structure, dating back to 1425, is the oldest house in Amsterdam and one of only two surviving wooden residences in the city.