A beguinage is a historical community where women, often referred to as beguines, lived in a semi-religious lifestyle without taking formal vows. These communities emerged in the Middle Ages, primarily in regions like Flanders and the Netherlands. The beguines focused on prayer, work, and charitable activities while maintaining a degree of independence. Beguinages typically featured a collection of houses, a chapel, and communal spaces, creating a peaceful environment for the residents. They provided women with opportunities for education and self-sufficiency, allowing them to live outside traditional marriage structures. Many beguinages still exist today, recognized for their historical and architectural significance.