Local before arrival
The inner courtyards, often concealed behind nondescript doors along the canals, are called “Hofjes.” Peaceful, green oases surrounded by idyllic houses, most of these courtyards are very old and were constructed primarily for single women. Perhaps the best-known courtyard, Begijnhof also boasts the oldest house in the city. It retains its intimate atmosphere in spite of its numerous visitors. And the residents? The Begijnhof is still home to women only!
