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Historic complex · Tongeren, Limburg
Sint-Catharinabegijnhof
Beguinage founded in the 13th century on the banks of the Jeker, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with streets of old houses, the church of Santa Catarina and the medieval Moerenpoort gate alongside.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Sint-Catharinabegijnhof
Beguinages were enclosed neighbourhoods where beguines lived, religious women who did not take perpetual vows. Tongeren’s beguinage already existed before 1243 and in 1257 moved inside the walls to land on the banks of the Jeker, beside the Moerenpoort. It is one of the oldest in Flanders and, since 1998, has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage along with 12 other Flemish beguinages.
At the start of the 18th century the beguinage had nearly a hundred houses, more than 300 beguines, eight streets and three wells. The French confiscated and sold the complex in 1789, and in the 19th century the gate and part of the wall were demolished. Even so, the alleyways of brick houses remain; the oldest are on Brouwerstraat, one of them dated 1622.
In the centre stands the Sint-Catharinakerk, the beguinage church, with the wooden roof structure from the second half of the 13th century and an interior decorated in Baroque style around 1700.
Next to it is the Moerenpoort, one of the gates of the medieval wall, on the edge of the Jeker. The combination of beguinage, gate and river is one of the quietest corners of the city.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
Late afternoon or early morning, when the lanes are quiet. Remember this is a residential area.
How to get there
It lies southeast of the centre, about a 10-minute walk from the Grote Markt and roughly 15 minutes from the station.
Tip
Keep your voice down: many of the beguinage houses are private residences. Walk to the Moerenpoort, the medieval gate beside it, and stroll a little along the Jeker’s bank.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sint-Catharinabegijnhof
What is a beguinage?
It is an enclosed quarter where beguines lived — religious women who lived in community without perpetual vows. The beguinages of Flanders have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
Can you enter the beguinage church?
Yes. The Sint-Catharinakerk is usually open to visitors, but opening days vary by season. Check before you go.
Can you enter the houses?
No, most are private residences. The visit is along the streets and through the church.
What is the Moerenpoort?
One of the gates of Tongeren's medieval wall, next to the beguinage, on the banks of the river Jeker.