Nestled within the Begijnhof, the Sint Barbarakapel holds a secret. It wasn’t always named after Saint Barbara. The Begijnhof Chapel, as it was originally known, began as a haven for the Beguines, a community of devout women. These women, though dedicated to a life of chastity and service, were not nuns. They could leave the Begijnhof and even marry if they chose. The Sint Barbarakapel stands as a testament to their resilience and faith. Around 1150, these women gathered in Amsterdam. They cared for the sick and lived a communal life. The word “beguines” wouldn’t appear in official documents until 1307, according to the Amsterdam City Archives. Their first chapel, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, existed as early as 1397. A new, larger chapel was consecrated in 1419, dedicated to Mary, Saint John the Evangelist, and the apostle Matthew. The fires of 1421 and 1452 severely damaged this chapel, but the Beguines rebuilt it. One Beguine, Cornelia Arens, chose to be buried outside the chapel walls. This was because the chapel had become a Protestant place of worship after the Alteration of 1578. Her grave is still decorated with flowers every year on May 2nd. After the Alteration, the Beguines lost their original church. It became the English Reformed Church. They then worshipped in the sacristy, and later, in various houses within the Begijnhof. The present Sint Barbarakapel was built by combining two houses, starting in 1665. The foundation stone was laid in 1671. Inside the Sint Barbarakapel, you can see the legacy of the Beguines. The main altar holds a painting of the Miracle of Amsterdam. Two side altars feature paintings by Claes Corneliszoon Moeyaert. Remember, as you admire the Sint Barbarakapel, the dedicated Beguines. Their history echoes within the walls. They persevered through fires and religious upheavals. Their story is Amsterdam’s story.
Sint Barbarakapel
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