Lier Beguinage
Begijnhof

**A living monument to the lives of so many women, Lier's Beguinage is a gorgeous courtyard of 200 houses dating back to the 13th century **

Shout out to all the independent women. The women of a beguinage lived in this closed courtyard after taking a vow of chastity. They supported themselves by making lace and embroidery. Founded in 1298, this beguinage is one of the oldest female-only communes in Flanders. It’s actually a world heritage site. It’s not exactly a nunnery, since women could leave at any time to get married and have children. They just couldn’t return.

Once a commune for single and widowed women, Begijnhof is now a landmark and much-loved walking spot. You get to walk down the cobblestone streets of Belgium’s history.

• A lot of the beguinage has undergone renovation and is in great condition, but other parts are still in progress. In general though this is a good stop along the way to see a broader history of Belgium and to get some good photos as you stroll.
• Are you a fan of literature? Flemish writer and painter Felix Timmermans was inspired by this place and wrote a short story “Onze-Lieve-Vrouw der Pisces” about the wooden statue Our Lady of Remedy. You can find the statue in an alcove by the main entrance.
• On the gate there’s a statue of the patron of beguinages. Inscribed under the statue is “Saint Begga, our foundress.” Saint Begga founded churches and built a covenant after the death of her husband.
• The homes are quite pretty and the gate (added in 1690) is charming too. Also worth a look in the centre is St. Margaret's church, but it’s not open to visitors unless you book a group tour.