Beguinage

One of Oudenaarde’s hidden treasures is the charming beguinage. For many people it is a place of peace and tranquility, especially during the summer months. The small gardens show a nice variety of flowers and plants. The original beguines lived behind St Walburga’s Church. In 1449 they moved to new accommodation on the present site. The beguines were not nuns as they did not take eternal monastic vows. However, they did have to be single and take a vow of chastity and they retained their own possessions.

In the fronton of the red-painted gatehouse with its baroque gate is a likeness of St Rochus, the patron saint of plague victims. A few whitewashed houses date back to the 17th century but most of them were rebuilt in the 18th and 19th centuries. The litlle chapel is certainly worth a visit.

Visit Beguinage (Achterburg, 9700 Oudenaarde)

Individual visitors

• Free visit possible during the day
• The gate closes at 21.00h (summer) and at 19.00h (winter)

Groups

• For a guided tour, please contact the Tourist Office