Curaçao Willemstad

Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao and the Netherlands Antilles, has an estimated population of 125,000. With 750 historic buildings, Willemstad prides itself on its Dutch influenced colonial architecture. The historic center of the city is comprised of two sections: Punda and Otrobanda, which are separated by the St. Anna bay.

Punda, known as the shopping district, was established in 1634 when the Dutch captured the island from Spain. This section can be reached by crossing a unique floating bridge. Travelers enjoy the district’s duty free jewelry and fashion stores. Many like to test their negotiation skills with the colorful vendors in the floating market, which takes place daily as the locals procure their fresh produce from the dozens of small vessels that ply the deep blue waters.

Otrobanda, founded in 1707, has been dubbed the cultural center of Willemstad. Otrobanda is home to The Curaçao Museum, which displays the work of both local and foreign, traditional and contemporary artists. Check out the antique furniture exhibit, which displays 18th and 19th C. mahogany pieces. For more cultural stimulation, visit the Kura Hulanda Museum, which chronicles the Origin of Man, the African slave trade, West African Empires, Pre-Colombian gold, Mesopotamian relics, and Antillean art.