Here at the Begijnhof, the Poortgebouw stands as more than just an entrance. It is a portal through time. Built in 1907, this structure replaced an older, narrower gate that struggled to accommodate the growing crowds visiting the Begijnhof church.
The Begijnhof needed a better solution. The old gate was too small. It caused congestion, especially during church services. Anton J. Joling was commissioned to design a new gateway. Jan Kuijt oversaw the construction while Joling was abroad.
Notice the Poortgebouw’s unique facade. It is the only building on this side without a plastered exterior. The Spui side features brick and sandstone. Above the gate, Saint Ursula protects her maidens. Look closely at the sculpture. Lilies surround her. These details add to the building’s charm.
The name “Bagijnhof” is carved above the arch. However, there is a slight error. The worker mistakenly carved “Bagijnhof” instead of “Begijnhof”. The archway is crowned by two heads on either side of the oak door. Rien Hack, the sculptor, collaborated with the architect.
Hack’s artistry extends inside the passageway. He sculpted a crowing rooster, a barking dog, and a boy running in clogs. These figures symbolized those unwelcome in the courtyard. An old rule aimed to prevent noise within the Begijnhof. “Ter voorkominge van gedruisch op den Hof” it said. This translates to “to prevent noise in the courtyard”. The Poortgebouw is more than just a pretty facade.
The building has five floors. These include an attic. It covers approximately 70 square meters. The structure comprises brick, hard stone, and sandstone. The passageway features a groin vault. This supports the apartments above. Terrazzo tiles cover the floor. Originally, each floor contained three rooms and a kitchen.
High atop the facade, observe the wrought-iron hoist beam. It is shaped like an anchor. The anchor symbolizes faith, hope, and love. The year 1907 is worked into the design.
Before this new gate, the old gate was too narrow. George Hendrik Breitner captured the old gate in a photograph around 1904. The new Poortgebouw has an entrance on the corner of Begijnensteeg and Gedempte Begijnensloot. It offers an alternative to the Kalverstraat entrance.
So, as you pass through the Poortgebouw, remember its history. Remember its purpose. Remember the artistry that went into its creation. It is a gateway to both a place and a time.