Groot begijnhof Leuven, a brief history Originally, most of this text was based on the book The Groot Begijnhof of Leuven by W.A. Olyslager. Later additions and modifications have been made using other, more recent publications. For these and older references, mostly in Dutch, see below. Situation The Beguinage of Leuven lies on the banks of the River Dyle, in a quarter called "Ten Hove", south of the city center. The part on the left river bank is known as Spanish Quarter, but also as "Aborg", or, in Latin, "Vetus Castellum". This name could refer to the first castle of Leuven, which was conquered by the Vikings at the end of the Ninth Century. In 891, these Vikings were beaten by the German emperor, Arnulf of Carinthia, in the battle of Leuven. Although the exact location of the battle is unknown, it is possibly the present site of the Beguinage.
The actual history of the Beguinage only starts in the Twelfth Century. For Europe, this was an era of economical, cultural and religious revival. The crusades had brought men in touch with Arabic science and culture. Society evolved from a feudal, purely agrarian model to a new type, based on trade and international contacts. This is also the period of the origin of towns. In this society, finding enough food was no longer the only and central question: people had more fundamental questions and were trying to give their lifes sense. This climate gave rise to a broad mystical movement in Europe.
Religious revival was also due to the end of the Investiture Struggle (1075-1122). In the 11th century, bishops and prelates were appointed by local civil authorities like dukes, kings or emperors. After a long and complicated "struggle" the pope regain his (exclusive) prerogatives concerning religious affairs. | |
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