Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde, Bruges

Lore & Background

Since 1927, no beguines have lived there; it has functioned as a convent for Benedictines, founded by canon Hoornaert. In the same year, the houses on the west side were reshaped and enlarged into the Monasterium De Wijngaard, a priory of Benedictine nuns.

Reader's Guide

The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde holds significance as the only preserved beguinage in Bruges, representing a unique form of medieval religious community for women. Its founding by Margaret of Constantinople and recognition by King Philip the Fair underscore its historical importance. The site's architecture—a Gothic church and white painted houses from the 16th to 18th centuries around a central yard—illustrates the beguinage's evolution. Its transformation in 1927 into a Benedictine convent, with the establishment of Monasterium De Wijngaard, marks a shift from beguine to monastic life. The museum in the first beguine house preserves artifacts like paintings, furniture, and lacework, offering insight into daily life. The beguinage's continued use as a religious community and its preservation as a historic site make it a key landmark in Bruges, reflecting centuries of spiritual and social history.

Did You Know?

• The beguinage was founded around 1244 by Margaret of Constantinople.
• It came under direct authority of King Philip the Fair in 1299 and was titled 'Princely Beguinage.'
• Since 1927, it has functioned as a convent for Benedictines, founded by canon Hoornaert.
• The entrance gate was built in 1776 by master mason Hendrik Bultynck.