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Bushiribana Gold Smelter: Echoes of Aruba's Golden Past

Explore the historic Bushiribana Gold Smelter ruins on Aruba's north coast, a window into the island's 19th-century gold mining era.

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The Bushiribana Gold Smelter, located on Aruba's north coast, stands as a silent monument to the island's 19th-century gold rush. Built in 1872 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company, the smelter processed ore from nearby mines. Today, its ruins offer a glimpse into Aruba's industrial history against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.

A brief summary to Bushiribana Gold Smelter

  • H23F+CHV, Noord, AW
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is uneven and rocky.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade.
  • Snap a photo through the window frames of the ruins for a unique perspective.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the high-rise hotels in Palm Beach, head north on J.E. Irausquin Blvd. Continue to the roundabout at Palm Beach and take the second exit onto L.G. Smith Blvd toward Oranjestad. Follow the signs for Bushiribana Gold Smelter. The smelter is located off the main road and has a designated parking area. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take a bus heading towards Noord or the Gold Mine area. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at the Bushiribana stop. From the bus stop, the Bushiribana Gold Smelter is a short walk away. Check the bus schedule in advance as service may be limited. A single bus fare is approximately 2.30 AWG (Aruban Florin), which is roughly equivalent to $1.30 USD.

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Discover more about Bushiribana Gold Smelter

The Bushiribana Gold Smelter, located on Aruba's rugged north coast, is a captivating historical site that whispers tales of Aruba's golden past. Constructed in 1872 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company, this smelter was erected to process gold ore extracted from the Seroe Plat region. The London-based company also built a pier in Oranjestad harbor and a six-mile road connecting the smelter to the harbor. For about ten years, Bushiribana was a bustling industrial center, where a stamp mill and the newly implemented 'cyanide process' were used to extract gold from crushed quartz. The ruins showcase 19th-century industrial architecture, withstanding the test of time and the harsh trade winds. Although the smelter was abandoned in 1899, its solid stone walls, arches, and chimneys remain, offering visitors a tangible connection to Aruba's mining heritage. Visitors can explore the site freely, taking in panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the island's dramatic northern coastline. The location is easily accessible by car and offers ample parking. Nearby, hiking trails invite exploration of Aruba's natural beauty.

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