Begijnhofkapel is a small Catholic chapel at Begijnhof 29, inside the quiet courtyard in central Amsterdam. The chapel has served as a place of worship and prayer, and its understated exterior gives little hint of the interior. Look for the altar and painting, marbled columns, stained-glass windows and a faded wall fresco. Artwork inside also tells the story of the Miracle of Amsterdam. The chapel is a brief stop while exploring Begijnhof, and in December it is decorated for Christmas.
A chapel within the Begijnhof
There has been a chapel at the beguinage since it was founded in the early 14th century. In 1604, English Protestants took over the medieval chapel, and the Catholic beguines moved their worship elsewhere within the Begijnhof. In 1665, two residential houses were joined to create a church space.
The chapel became a place where Catholic women in the Begijnhof community could worship. It is also known as the hidden church. From outside, it resembles one of the courtyard’s house buildings; the entrance is across from the English Reformed Church.
Details inside the chapel
Inside, the altar and its painting sit among marbled columns and stained-glass windows. Artwork with nine panes relates the story of the Miracle of Amsterdam, a religious event commemorated in the chapel.
A faded fresco extends along the right-hand wall. The colours are subdued, and the lighting is kept low to help protect the image. Take a moment to look along the wall as well as at the altar and windows; the chapel is small enough to explore in a short visit.
FAQ
How long does a visit to Begijnhofkapel take?
Plan for about 10 to 15 minutes to see the chapel.
What can you see inside Begijnhofkapel?
The interior has an altar and painting, marbled columns, stained-glass windows and a faded fresco along one wall. Artwork also tells the story of the Miracle of Amsterdam.
Where is Begijnhofkapel?
The chapel is at Begijnhof 29, within the Begijnhof courtyard in central Amsterdam. Its entrance is across from the English Reformed Church.
When is Begijnhofkapel decorated for Christmas?
The chapel is decorated for Christmas in December.
