The name means “the other side. Otrobanda is known as one of the most artistic neighborhoods in Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao. Located just across the bridge from Punda, where you can find the main shopping areas and tourist attractions. This neighborhood offers a unique glimpse into Curaçao’s vibrant street art scene.
Although many tourists head to the Punda district to take pictures of the colorful houses and buildings, there are plenty of quieter side streets where artists have painted vivid scenes depicting life on Curaçao, including colorful fish jumping out of the water, women riding horses, and even the island’s traditional windmills.
This beautiful neighborhood in Willemstad is home to many historic buildings, such as the former Dutch Governor’s Palace, the old city hall, the St. Nicolas Church, the old schoolhouse, the old hospital and several others. There are also several museums and galleries here.
The colorful steps are one of the most photographed spots in the city. They are located at the top of Van Lennep Street, where you have a great view of the arched bridge called the Queen Juliana Bridge. Another popular place to visit are the murals that line the passage between Quinta Street and Cornelis Dirkswegh.
The historic district of Willemstad
Otrobanda was once a rough neighborhood. But since the 1990s, artists and volunteers have transformed the place into a vibrant art center. Today, dozens of murals, sculptures and art installations can be seen in Otrobanda.
In 1988, the government declared the area a historical monument, and in 1997 it entered the UNESCO World Heritage List. The neighborhood is also home to several galleries and museums dedicated to local history. One of the most popular attractions is the Kura Hulanda Museum and the Curaçao Museum. There are also many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy live music and dance performances.
In 1634, the Dutch founded the port city of Willemstad on the Caribbean island. In 1795, it became part of the Dutch West Indies. A century later, in 1934, the United States took possession of the islands during World War II. During the postwar period, the U.S. government handed over Willemstad to the Netherlands, which regained control of the archipelago in 1986.
Willemstad is located in the southernmost part of the main island of Curaçao, which lies off the coast of Venezuela. The city has a population of about 45,000. Most houses are built around small squares and streets, creating a typically Dutch pattern of housing construction. The city’s old quarter is surrounded by a wall dating back to the early 18th century. This area contains many examples of late Baroque and neoclassical buildings; some date from the 19th century.
There are also numerous churches, including the Basilica Santa Ana, the oldest church building in Willemstad. Other notable buildings include the former Governor’s Palace, the City Hall, the House of Culture, the Art Museum, the National Library, the Maritime Museum, the Old Jail, the New Jail and the Botanical Gardens. Otrobanda is also home to the first nursing home. This building is located in the Kura Hulanda Village, where the beautiful boutique hotel “Kura Botanica” is also located.
Your Otrobanda ‘to do list’
Otrobanda is one of those places where it seems like everyone knows each other. You are surrounded by friendly faces, and even if you don’t know anyone, you feel comfortable enough to strike up a conversation. And while there’s plenty to do in Otrobanda, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t spend some time getting to know the city.
There are many ways to explore Otrobanda. Whether you’re looking for something new to try out, want to learn about the local culture or just want to see what makes this city so special, we’ve got you covered.
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Curaçao Museum
The Curaçao Museum is located in the capital city of Willemstad, Curaçao. This museum offers visitors the chance to learn more about Curaçao’s history, including the island’s natural environment, culture and social life. There are several galleries where you can see the evolution of the island over the centuries. One of these galleries displays the island’s flora and fauna, while another shows the traditional costumes and dances of Curaçao.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural activities at the museum, including dance performances, plays, music concerts, art exhibitions and even photography workshops. In addition, the museum hosts a number of special events throughout the year. For example, a Christmas market is held every December and the annual Carnival Festival takes place in February.
Rif Fort & Renaissance Mall
The Renaissance Shopping Mall is located in Otrobanda, next to one of Curaçao’s eight forts. This fort is called Rif Fort and is located at the entrance to the St. Lawrence River. Anna Bay. In 1824, it was decided that Curaçao’s defenses needed to be improved because they were outdated. Commissioned by Lieutenant General Krayenhoff, construction began in 1828. Besides the military purpose of construction, it also provided jobs on the island.
The fort had 56 guns. Today, the reef fortress is home to a shopping center with many stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, cinemas and entertainment venues.
There are many stores where you can buy souvenirs such as clothes, accessories, jewelry, watches, bags, shoes, perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, toys, books, etc. You can even find some exclusive brands here. There is no doubt that this place will meet your needs.
If you want to eat out, there are many options to choose from. You can enjoy a drink while strolling through the mall. There are several places where you can get coffee, tea, juice, beer, wine, cocktails, water, soft drinks, etc. There are also various kinds of cafes, bars, pubs, lounges, etc., where you can listen to live music and enjoy each other’s company.
For those who enjoy gambling, there are casinos in the mall. They offer slot machines, roulette, blackjack, poker, craps, baccarat, dice, etc. You can try your luck and win big prizes.
Queen Emma Bridge
Queen Emma Bridge is the bridge located in st. anna bay, connecting the 2 districts of Punda and Otrobanda. The bridge opens regularly to allow ships to enter the harbor.
The bridge was built in 1988 and has since been renovated several times. The arches of light were installed on the occasion of the visit of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernard in 1955.
Every time the bridge opens, there are two ferries to take you across. Do not forget to see this beautiful bridge in the afternoon, so you will be amazed by the beautiful and colorful houses. Also, don’t forget to see it at night with all those magical lights.
Otrobanda Architecture tour
Another fun activity in the city center is an architecture walk, as Otrobanda is known for its beautiful architecture. A tour lasts +- 2 hours and you will learn all about the architecture, culture and people of this city.
Kura Hulanda Museum
The Kura Hulanda Museum is located in the Kura Hulanda village, as is our Hotel Kura Botanica, with all its historic buildings. The location of the museum is the exact site of a former slave yard. The museum tells the history of Curaçao, the Caribbean, the Americas and Africa. The museum shows how African culture still influences the island’s culture.
Otrobanda is a great place to enjoy and explore the island’s culture. There are many fun activities you can participate in. And don’t forget the local culture! You will find many interesting places to explore and learn about.
Kura Botanica Hotel Image Gallery
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