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National Archaeological Museum Aruba: Unearthing Aruba's Past

Explore over 3,500 years of Aruban history and culture at the National Archaeological Museum in Oranjestad.

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The National Archaeological Museum Aruba in Oranjestad showcases over 3,500 years of the island's history, from pre-ceramic times to the 19th century. Exhibits feature Amerindian artifacts and interactive displays, providing insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of Aruba's early inhabitants.

A brief summary to National Archaeological Museum Aruba

  • Schelpstraat 42, Oranjestad, Oranjestad-West, AW
  • +2975828979

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and appreciate the historical context.
  • Check the museum's schedule for temporary exhibitions or events to enhance your visit.
  • Take advantage of the guided tours for in-depth insights into the artifacts and history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Archaeological Museum Aruba is centrally located in downtown Oranjestad, a short walk from the cruise terminal and the main street. From the cruise terminal, walk along Weststraat and turn right onto Schelpstraat. The museum will be on your right. Walking from the main shopping area takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Arubus, the local bus service, has a central station in downtown Oranjestad, near the cruise terminal. From the bus station, walk along Weststraat and turn right onto Schelpstraat. The museum will be on your right. A single bus fare is approximately US$2.75.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad. A short taxi ride from the cruise terminal or hotel area to the museum will typically cost between $7 and $12. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as fares are fixed based on destination.

  • Car

    If driving, the museum is located at Schelpstraat 42 in Oranjestad. From the main road (Lloyd G. Smith Blvd), turn onto Caya Ernesto Petronia, then turn right onto Schelpstraat. Limited free parking is available on the unpaved terrain adjacent to the building. Paid parking is also available at Aruparking spots nearby.

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Discover more about National Archaeological Museum Aruba

The National Archaeological Museum Aruba (NAMA), located in the heart of Oranjestad, is dedicated to researching, preserving, and raising awareness of Aruba's rich material history. The museum's collections span from 2500 BCE to the 19th century, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the island's early inhabitants. The museum is housed in the beautifully restored former dwellings of the Ecury family, a significant historical landmark. The 580 m2 permanent exhibition offers an interactive and educational experience, showcasing over 10,000 Amerindian artifacts. These artifacts, crafted from pottery, shell, stone, bone, and glass, reflect Amerindian and spiritual life, and highlight Aruba's connections to Europe, Mexico, and South America. The exhibits explore themes such as Home Life, Artistic and Sacred Expression, Origins and Exchanges, and the Past in the Present. Visitors can explore reconstructed environments, multimedia displays, and hands-on activities. The museum also features temporary exhibitions and an audiovisual room, adding to the visitor experience. The archaeological staff actively researches the collections, leads excavations, and preserves key heritage sites, including the cave paintings in Arikok National Park.

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