Beguinages

Beguinages were communities established in medieval Europe, primarily for women known as Beguines, who chose to live a religious life without taking formal vows. These women often sought refuge from societal constraints, living together in a communal setting focused on faith, work, and charity. The architecture typically featured small houses surrounding a central courtyard or church. Beguinages provided a space for women to maintain their independence while engaging in spirituality and social service. They thrived in regions like Belgium and the Netherlands, and many have been preserved as historical sites today.