The Beguines of Leuven

During the 12th century in Europe, towns were being established as populations concentrated on commerce and industry instead of sustenance.The period of "beginae indisciplinatae": women inspired by the mystical movement of the 12th century, retired from the world. During this period, these women formed small groups, to create a more stimulating atmosphere for a religious life. They did not want to live contemplative lives in the desert, but among other women near a church or monastery. 

Sint-Jan-de-Doperkerk Church in the Beguinage of Leuven

Beguines did not make perpetual vows of chastity, poverty and obedience, as classical monks and nuns did. Their promises were only temporal and poverty was not necessary: a beguine had her own possessions and her own income. She only promised celibacy and obedience as long as she remained in the beguinage. She was free to leave the convent at any moment, although she mostly had to give up her rights on her house in the beguinage upon leaving. The women created small towns near rivers. The Beguinage of Leuven, at one time, had nearly 300 members. 

Street in the Beguinage of Leuven

River running through the Beguinage. Water was needed for drinking, cooking and washing.
For more info about Beguinages, go to
http://www.cns.bu.edu/~satra/kaatvds/leuvenhistory.htm