Begijnhof Amsterdam
Lying quietly behind the busy Spui shopping center, in the middle of the bustle of the city is the square known as Begijnhof. The community began in the early 14th century as home to the Beguines. While not nuns (they did not take monastic vows), the Beguines were a catholic order dedicated to charity for the elderly and the needy. Made up primarily of widows and wealthy unmarried women, they also assisted the nuns living in the nearby convent.

The group continued to labor even after Protestantism took hold in the 16th century. The last Beguine died in 1971. Today you will find an oasis of tranquility here, as well as one of the oldest wooden houses in the city. Begijnhof offers remarkable insight into the early history of Amsterdam. Peace and quiet is still the rule and you and only visit during daylight hours, since the city's elderly poor now live in the homes that line the square.