Historic Area Of Willemstad

Willemstad was established by the Dutch as a trading post in the 17th century. Curaçao's trademark landmark, the colorful Dutch colonial houses that line Willemstad's waterfront, are also part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses the historic districts of Punda, Pietermaai, Otrobanda, and Scharloo. The oldest portion of the city, Punda, was built in the 17th century and is the only place where a defense system of walls and ramparts, which were connected to Fort Amsterdam, can still be seen. The remaining districts, which date from the 18th century, include a wider range of architectural styles, including galleries and characteristic baroque features such as curved gables.

Willemstad's architecture was influenced not just by Dutch colonial ideas, but also by the tropical environment and architectural forms of communities in the Caribbean region with which the city traded. The first houses built in Punda were based on Dutch urban planning. Local materials and craftsmanship, as well as new architectural aspects such as galleries, began to appear in the 18th century. The architectural style of the dwellings evolved as the city extended beyond Punda.

Willemstad is an example of a well-preserved Dutch trading village from the colonial period. The majority of the original 1650-1900 urban structure and architecture is still intact and serves as the backdrop for a great number of monuments. Over three centuries, the multicultural community has had a significant impact on the city's growth.

Location: Willemstad