Though in the centre of the city, this hofje (sanctuary) is a haven of peace. Each of its tall facades (17th and 18th Centuries) is fronted by a little garden, and the whole is organised around an open space and the ancient church of the Beguines (a semi-religious community founded in the 12th Century). No Beguines live here any more: single women, old people and students have taken their places. This is also where to find the oldest house in the city: Het Houten Huys (the wooden house).