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The 10 best historical sights of Curaçao

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Curaçao has a rich history and offers numerous historical sites for visitors to explore. Here are ten of the most prominent historical sites on the island:

  1. Kura Hulanda Museum
    • Located in Willemstad, this museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Curaçao and the broader African diaspora. It offers an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight the island's slavery period, local culture, and trading history.
  2. Historic District of Willemstad
    • The historic center of Willemstad is on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its unique architecture and historical value. Visitors can enjoy the colorful Dutch colonial buildings along Handelskade, the famous Pontjes Bridge and Fort Amsterdam.
  3. Fort Nassau
    • This 18th-century fortress offers panoramic views over the city of Willemstad and the surrounding area. The fort was built by the Dutch to defend the island and now houses a restaurant where guests can enjoy a meal with beautiful views.
  4. Country house Chobolobo
    • This historic country house, located just outside Willemstad, is home to the Senior & Co. liqueur factory, where the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur is produced. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and learn more about the history and production of this local liquor.
  5. Country house Knip
    • Landhuis Knip, also known as Landhuis Kenepa, is a restored 18th-century country house that serves as a museum. It provides insight into the history of Curaçao's plantation economy and the role of slavery on the island.
  6. Hato Caves
    • Located in the north of the island, these limestone caves offer a fascinating glimpse into Curacao's geological and historical past. Visitors can admire stalactites, stalagmites and Native American petroglyphs, as well as learn about the caves' role in the island's history.
  7. Christoffel Park and Savonet Country House
    • Christoffel Park, located in the west of Curaçao, is the largest national park on the island and is home to the historic Savonet Country House. This mansion now serves as a visitor center and museum, where visitors can learn more about the nature, history and culture of Curaçao.
  8. Kura di Hulanda
    • This restored 19th-century mansion in Otrobanda, Willemstad, offers insight into plantation life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can admire authentic furniture, utensils and artefacts from that period.
  9. Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagoge
    • Built in 1732, the Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue in Willemstad is the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere. The interior is beautifully decorated and contains an impressive collection of historical objects and documents.
  10. Maritime Museum
    • Located in Willemstad, this museum highlights Curaçao's maritime history, with exhibits on shipping, shipwrecks, lighthouses and more. The museum is housed in a historic building on the harbor and offers a fascinating look at Curaçao's relationship with the sea.

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