The purpose of this thesis is to analyse the origin, history, and the architectural setting of the Begijnhof in Amsterdam throughout significant periods of change, the Middle Ages, the Reformation and the contemporary era. The combination of these aspects depicts the architectural setting of the Begijnhof that support the needs of the female inhabitants, the Beguinages. This research has been conducted by literature study and a case study of the Begijnhof in building plans (archival research). The results show the architectural settings of the Begijnhof are translated for the needs: independence, safety, religion, work and reputation. These aspects influence and enhance each other. The architectural settings are translations of these needs, most of them are outside the domestic sphere, in the courtyard and its attributes. When designing for the Beguinages, it turns out it is important to design holistically, socially oriented and slow paced.