3. Begijnhof
The historic and amongst the oldest inner courtyards in Amsterdam, Begijnhof is a former 14th-century convent with tiny abodes and postage-stamp gardens around a well-kept courtyard. The Begijnhof is the only inner court in Amsterdam which was built in Middle Ages, hence it lies within Singel—a canal that encircled the city during middle ages. Edifices within the court are built in distinctive Amsterdam style.
These are tall houses and each of 47 dwellings has a character of its own. Facades from 17th and 18th century are common in these houses. One of the two restored wooden houses is a major tourist attraction here. Clandestine Church and Engelse Kerk built in 1392 are also crowd-pullers.
