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Alto Vista Chapel: A Pilgrimage to Peace

Discover Aruba's spiritual heart at the Alto Vista Chapel. A historic landmark offering peace, stunning views, and a glimpse into the island's past.

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The Alto Vista Chapel, Aruba's first Catholic church, stands as a beacon of peace and reflection. Rebuilt in 1952 on the site of the original 1750 chapel, it offers stunning views and a serene escape from the island's bustling tourist areas.

A brief summary to Alto Vista Chapel

  • HXGQ+9JC, Noord, AW
  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-6 pm
  • Friday 6 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the area can get hot and exposed.
  • Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees when visiting the chapel.
  • Take some time to walk the Peace Labyrinth next to the chapel for a meditative experience.
  • Combine your visit with a hike or mountain bike ride on the nearby trails for stunning coastal views.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Oranjestad, head northwest on L.G. Smith Boulevard (Route 4). Follow the signs for Alto Vista as you pass through Noord. Turn right onto the winding road leading up to the chapel. Parking is available near the chapel. Note that UTVs/ATVs and tour buses have designated parking areas a short distance from the chapel.

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take a bus towards Noord. Ask the driver to be dropped off at the nearest stop to Alto Vista Chapel. From there, follow the signs and walk approximately 10-15 minutes to reach the chapel. A single bus fare is approximately $2.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Aruba. Inform the driver you wish to go to Alto Vista Chapel. From the cruise port, the ride is approximately 15-20 minutes. A taxi ride from Eagle Beach will cost approximately $15-$20 USD. Ensure the meter is used or negotiate the fare beforehand.

Unlock the Best of Alto Vista Chapel

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Discover more about Alto Vista Chapel

Perched on a hilltop overlooking Aruba's rugged north shore, the Alto Vista Chapel is a significant landmark steeped in history and spirituality. Built in 1750 by Caquetio natives and Spanish settlers, led by a Venezuelan missionary, Domingo Antonio Silvestre, it was the first Roman Catholic Church in Aruba. The original chapel, dedicated to Mother St. Mary, served as a center for worship and the conversion of native Arubans. Tragedy struck when a plague decimated the area, leading to the chapel's abandonment in 1816. However, the devotion of a local school teacher, Francisca, led to its revival in the early 1950s. She gathered funds, commissioned a statue of St. Mary from the Netherlands, and oversaw the chapel's reconstruction, completed between March and May 1952. The bright yellow chapel with its terracotta tiled roof stands out against the Aruban landscape. Inside, the design is simple yet elegant, featuring wooden pews and an altar adorned with religious artifacts. A white cross stands tall in front of the entrance, symbolizing hope and faith. Visitors can also explore the nearby Peace Labyrinth, a place for meditation and inner peace. Today, the Alto Vista Chapel welcomes visitors of all faiths seeking tranquility and spiritual solace. Weekly services are held on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM by a priest from Noord. The chapel also holds special significance during the annual pilgrimage on January 18th, the Feast of Santa Filomena.

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