Hidden behind a gate, this is the most serene corner of Amsterdam, Begijnhof. The oldest and most famous courtyard of Amsterdam was established in the 14th century to house the Begijnen (Beguines). The Beguines were a Roman catholic laic order and led a semi-monastic lifestyle without taking any official vows. They promised not to marry "as long as they lived as Beguines" and devoted themselves to prayer and charities, without taking vows. The last beguine that lived here passed away in 1971 and the houses were then transformed into private residences.