Mechelen Beguinage
The Great Beguinage of Mechelen, located north of the city centre, is a unique street-style beguinage that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Unlike classic walled beguinages, the Mechelen beguinage forms a network of small streets and squares with 17th-century houses, chapels, and a beautiful baroque Beguinage Church. The ensemble breathes the atmosphere of a separate, self-governing district within the city walls.
Accessibility of the outdoor spaces is reasonably good: most streets of the beguinage are accessible via paved roads, but some cobblestones are uneven and may cause a bumpy ride. The Beguinage Church has a ramp at the side entrance, and the rich baroque interior is accessible on the ground floor, although some side chapels have a step. The central Small Beguinage is car-free and pleasant for rolling around.
Adapted toilets are available in nearby cultural institutions such as the Hof van Busleyden. Disabled parking spaces are located in the underground Grote Markt car park and the De Zandpoort car park within walking distance. The beguinage is easy to combine with a visit to Saint Rumbold's Cathedral, the Hof van Busleyden, and the Dyle banks, all part of an accessible city route.
Good to know
- Reservation
- The beguinage is an open residential quarter and freely accessible without booking. For a guided visit to the Beguinage Church or thematic tours, contact Visit Mechelen in advance.
- Busy and quiet times
- Busiest during events such as the Maneblusser festivities and Open Monuments Day. Generally the beguinage is quiet, especially in the morning and on weekdays, since it is mainly a residential area.
- Things to note
- The terrain is mostly level, but the old cobbles are uneven in several places and can cause a bumpy ride. The Beguinage Church is only accessible via a side entrance with a ramp, and some side chapels have a step.
- Visit tip
- Combine with Saint Rumbold's Cathedral and the Hof van Busleyden via the accessible route along the Bruul; accessible parking bays can be found in the De Zandpoort car park and the Grote Markt car park, both within rolling distance.
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