The beguinage in Lier has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
It is a typical 13th century street beguinage with 11 narrow streets and 162 small houses. The front doors of the houses feature the name of a saint or a biblical scene. Most of the houses date from the 17-18th century. Some of them have typical forecourts and gates.
Originally, the houses were inhabited by beguines: celibate, devout women who could lead an independent life under the supervision of a Grand Mistress. They took a vow of chastity and obedience, but not a vow of poverty. Among other things, they made a living from weaving or embroidering lace. They could leave the beguinage freely; only in the evening and on Sundays the gates remained closed. Sister Agnes, the last beguine in Lier, died in 1994.
St. Margaret's Church lies in the heart of the beguinage.
The beguinage will be restored in several phases over the next few years. More information
The Almshouses, near the beguinage, were used in the past to house the sick and the needy. The small houses are located around a beautiful inner garden. You can visit an exhibition of Lier lace here.