Begijnhof Chapel, Catholic chapel in Begijnhof, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Begijnhof Chapel is a church building in Amsterdam's medieval courtyard, distinguished by its gothic leaded windows and simple interior design. The structure stands across from the reformed church and allows light to filter through its distinctive window glass.
The building was designed in 1665 by architect Philips Vingboons and replaced an older house of worship that had served the Beguines since the 14th century. This construction phase marked a time when the Catholic community renewed its presence in the courtyard.
The chapel serves as a place of Catholic worship and prayer for the community and visitors who come to the courtyard. Regular services and quiet moments create a spiritual rhythm that shapes daily life in this historic court.
The chapel can be accessed through the Begijnhof courtyard, which connects to the city through the Spui and Begijnensteeg entrances and remains open during daylight hours. Visitors can enter the chapel during courtyard hours and find a quiet place to spend time.
The building sits about three feet (1 meter) below the current street level, preserving the original height of medieval Amsterdam's city center. This sunken position gives visitors a tangible sense of how much the city has risen over the centuries.
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