The Beguines were a group of lay religious women in medieval Europe, particularly active from the 12th to the 17th centuries. They lived in semi-communal settings, often in small communities called beguinages, where they focused on spiritual life, charitable work, and helping the poor. Unlike nuns, Beguines did not take formal vows and could leave the community if they chose. Beguines were known for their independence and often engaged in various trades or crafts to support themselves. Their movement emerged in response to the growing need for women's spiritual expression and social involvement during a time when options for women were limited.