Maagdenhuis (Virgin House)
The Maagdenhuis (virgin house) was an orphanage and foundling home for newborn girls in Antwerp. The property with its lovely courtyard was built in the sixteenth and seventeenth century and was in use until the late 19th century.
Mothers who abandoned their daughters and left them at the Maagdenhuis often attached one half of a playing card to the child while they kept the other half themselves. Many hoped that they would one day be reunited with their daughters. These cards, as well as furniture, paintings and sculptures are on display in the Maagdenhuis.
Address: Lange Gasthuisstraat 33
Postal code: 2000
City: Antwerp
