Beguinage, Bruges

Beguinage, Bruges

The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde or Beguinage of the Vineyard in Bruges is a semi-monastic complex that was once home to Beguines (Catholic lay women) and is now inhabited by the sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict.

The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde or Beguinage of the Vineyard in Bruges is a semi-monastic complex that was once home to Beguines (Catholic lay women) and is now inhabited by the sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict. The whitewashed buildings, with their courtyards and churches are a UNESCO World Heritage site for their cultural significance and architectural ensemble. There is a chapel, library and a museum showing the typical layout of a home in the Flemish Beguinage. The Beguinage is an oasis of peace in the neighborhood and visitors are expected to maintain decorum.