Begijnhof

Tucked away in the heart of Breda, the Begijnhof is a serene enclave that transports visitors back in time with its charming architecture and tranquil atmosphere. This hidden gem, surrounded by walls and nestled close to Park Valkenberg, consists of 29 quaint houses and a small church arranged around a picturesque herb garden. It offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life and a glimpse into the lives of the beguines, the pious women who once resided here.

The History of the Begijnhof

The Begijnhof's origins date back to the mid-13th century, when a community of beguines settled in Breda. These devout Catholic women, who sought to live a life of chastity, contemplation, and prayer without taking monastic vows, established their first settlement near the current Castle of Breda. An unverified legend attributes the founding of this community to Machteld van Diest. In 1267, the beguines received a gift of land from Hendrik V and his wife Sofia van Berthout, allowing them to develop their own Begijnhof with a church and cemetery. A simple wooden chapel was constructed between 1275 and 1325, later replaced by a more substantial stone church.

By the early 16th century, the Begijnhof had to relocate to its current site on Catharinastraat due to the expansion plans of Count Hendrik III of Nassau-Breda, who aimed to transform the Castle of Breda into a Renaissance palace. Despite initial resistance, the beguines eventually moved in 1535, receiving the St. Wendelinus Chapel as their new place of worship. The original medieval complex was demolished, and the new Begijnhof was built, which has largely retained its historical character to this day.

Exploring the Begijnhof

Visitors entering the Begijnhof are greeted by the charming sight of its well-preserved houses, each with its own unique history. The oldest houses, numbered 31 to 43, were built in 1535, followed by additional houses in the 18th century. Each house typically consisted of two rooms: a front room and a basement room on the ground floor. Over time, a second floor was added to these houses, reflecting the evolution of the Begijnhof's architecture.

The centerpiece of the Begijnhof is the St. Catharinakerk, a small neoclassical church built between 1836 and 1838 by Willem van Zon. Designed by the Oosterhout architect Van der Aa, this single-nave chapel boasts 69 seats and features beautiful stained-glass windows depicting saints such as St. Catharina and St. Begga. The church's serene interior and historical significance make it a must-visit for those exploring the Begijnhof.

Unique Features and Traditions

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Begijnhof is the Heksenbol, a mirrored glass ball mounted on an iron stand. This curious object, displayed from May to November, was believed to ward off witches by causing them to lose their magical powers upon seeing their own reflection. The presence of the Heksenbol in the Begijnhof adds a touch of mystery and folklore to the site, serving as a reminder of the superstitions that once influenced daily life.

The Begijnhof also includes the Kosterij, where the sacristan was responsible for the church and sacristy, preparing for Mass and maintaining the church's vestments and linens. The Kakhuis, built in 1856, housed four privies, and its water was drawn from a pump. Today, the Kakhuis is used to store seeds for the herb garden, which remains a focal point of the Begijnhof's tranquil setting.

The Second Courtyard

In response to the growing number of beguines, a second courtyard with nine additional houses was established between 1825 and 1859. This expansion reflects the enduring appeal of the Begijnhof as a place of community and spiritual reflection. The second courtyard, with its own unique charm, offers visitors a further glimpse into the daily lives of the beguines who once called this place home.

Preserving the Legacy

The Begijnhof has faced numerous challenges over the centuries, including legal disputes and restrictions on accepting new novices. However, the protection granted by the House of Orange-Nassau allowed the Begijnhof to endure as one of the few Catholic institutions in Breda to survive the Reformation. The community's resilience is evident in the ongoing preservation efforts, including archaeological research conducted in the late 20th century, which unearthed the remains of 123 individuals buried at the original Begijnhof site.

The last beguine of Breda, Cornelia Frijters, passed away in 1990, marking the end of an era. Yet, the Begijnhof continues to thrive as a historical site and a testament to the enduring spirit of the beguines. In 2017, the Begijnhof celebrated its 750th anniversary with a series of events, highlighting its rich history and cultural significance.

Today, the Begijnhof is managed by the same legal entity that has overseen it since 1267, making it the oldest surviving beguinage legal entity in Europe. Visitors to the Begijnhof can immerse themselves in its serene environment, explore its historical buildings, and reflect on the legacy of the beguines who once lived and prayed within its walls.

In conclusion, the Begijnhof in Breda is not just a historical site but a living monument to a unique way of life. Its peaceful courtyards, charming houses, and rich history offer a captivating experience for visitors, providing a window into the past and a deeper understanding of the beguines' enduring legacy.