During 1075 – 1085 the then Pope, Gregory VII undertook various reforms within the Catholic Church. This spread and subsequently led to a spontaneous movement that followed in accordance of the Apostles. These so called “Apostolieken” were mainly women who were “Pious or Holy women”. Initially the women used to live with Parents, yet living in a group soon became the norm and this was the start of the Beguines.
Wondering through the streets near the brewery of Het Ankter there is a sense of Community and it is indeed the case. Around 1560, this area became the established Groot Begijnhof (the Large Beguinage) when the city walls were destroyed.
Many of the Beguines purchased or built new dwellings within the same area, which is how Mechelen has a rather unusual Large Beguinage. At the same time there is also a Klein Begijnhof (the Small Beguinage) which is located close by. The size and central focus of these houses are not common in other cities. Due to the uniqueness of the Groot Begijnhof – traditional Flemish style buildings (tall windows, with smaller windows on top and also the traditional brickwork). It was recognised by Mechelen City as a listed area in 1985. In 1998 UNESCO World Heritage listed the Groot Begijnhof along with 12 other Begijnhofs in Belgium. Keep an eye out for houses with a blue and white plaque, these are registered listed buildings.
Beguinages were small towns within a town. Many had their own nursing home, brewery (Het Anker), bakery and even Infirmary. Traditionally founded in the time of the crusades, many men who left, never returned which resulted in a surplus of women. These women, often failed to find a suitable husband, which left the women to turn to Convents. Alas, some Convents only took well-to-do-women or aristocrats. For those who didn’t enter a convent chose to live together, where they could sustain themselves. In Mechelen, lace work, brewing beer were the common sources of income. The Beguines did not take the traditional vows of poverty, obedience and chastity, so they not tied to living a life as a traditional Nun. The Church at the time and right up until 1500 treated them sceptically, though overtime this perception changed when they saw they were devoted to the Beguines lifestyle. Each Beguinage had a Grand Mistress whose responsibility was to co-ordinate and organise the day to day running of the house.
For those women or children who did not have any possessions or were not financially secure found they were taken in by smaller Convents. These were often founded by benefactors, and where required to say prayers for occupants or their deceased family members. Beguines in Convents were required to work for their living which led to Mechelen having a very prosperous lace industry.
Today the Groot Begijnhof is very community focused with local gatherings, a quarterly newsletter and even a yearly market is held. Some people hold open days for their houses as well. This area is indeed quiet, so if you are visiting, please do respect the locals who reside here. Don’t forget to add this to your list when you plan your visit to Flanders – Mechelen is indeed a town with plenty to do and see!
Private tours are available for those who are keen to learn more and even visit an old Beguinage House. Contact Happy Aardvark for further information. If you are looking for a place to stay, we can highly recommend places to stay and even B&B available.
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