The Grand Béguinage of Leuven, which dates from the 13th century, is a collection of small streets and houses in the middle of the city. In the beginning, it was used as a shelter for unmarried women, later it became property of the OCMW (the public centre for social welfare). In the 60’s the Béguinage was renovated by the University of Leuven, en they allowed students and professors to settle in the houses. The river De Dijle flows right through the Béguinage.