BRUGES, Belgium — Spring daffodils bloom in the tranquil courtyard garden of the Beguinage (Begijnhof), a historic religious community for lay women. The medieval complex, surrounded by traditional white-painted houses, continues its centuries-old tradition as a place of spiritual reflection. This preserved religious site demonstrates the unique role of Beguinages in providing independent religious communities for women.

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Photograph by David Coleman. The Bruges Beguinage courtyard garden displays a vibrant array of spring daffodils, creating a peaceful scene within this historic religious community. The Beguinage, founded as a sanctuary for lay religious women who sought to serve God while maintaining some independence, represents a distinctive feature of medieval Low Countries culture. The houses surrounding the garden courtyard traditionally provided homes for Beguines, religious women who chose a middle path between secular and monastic life. The spring flowers, blooming among the carefully maintained lawn, enhance the contemplative atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site. This garden setting continues to reflect the Beguinage's historical role as a place of spiritual reflection and community, maintaining traditions established in medieval times while adapting to serve modern religious life.

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Size: 4476px × 6706px
Location: Begijnhof (Beguinage), Arrondissement Brugge, Flanders, Belgium
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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