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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 Aruba in Oranjestad. Free admission!

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The National Archaeological Museum Aruba (NAMA) in Oranjestad showcases over 3,500 years of the island's history, from 2500 BCE to the 19th century. Through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and reconstructed environments, visitors can explore the lives of Aruba's indigenous peoples and the impact of European colonization.

A brief summary to National Archaeological Museum Aruba

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Take advantage of the interactive exhibits to make history come alive.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Archaeological Museum Aruba is centrally located in downtown Oranjestad, making it easily accessible on foot. From the Oranjestad cruise terminal, walk inland towards the Royal Plaza Mall. Continue past the mall, heading west on улице Ruizstraat. Turn right onto Schelpstraat; the museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Arubus, the local bus service, provides an affordable way to reach the museum. From the main bus terminal adjacent to the cruise terminal, any bus route will drop you off within a short walking distance of the museum. From there, head to Schelpstraat. A single bus fare is approximately $2 USD. Buses run frequently from 5:45 AM to 11:30 PM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad, including at the cruise terminal. A taxi ride from the cruise terminal to the National Archaeological Museum Aruba costs approximately $10 USD. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about National Archaeological Museum Aruba

The National Archaeological Museum Aruba (NAMA), located in the heart of Oranjestad, invites visitors to embark on a journey through time, exploring over 3,500 years of Aruban history and culture. The museum's collections span from 2500 BCE to the 19th century, offering a comprehensive look at the island's pre-Columbian past and early colonial era. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial-era complex that was once the home of the prominent Ecury family, the museum itself is a historical landmark. The exhibits are spread across two levels and feature a diverse array of artifacts, including ancient pottery, tools, bone fragments, and shell ornaments. Interactive displays, informative panels, and reconstructed environments bring Aruba's history to life for visitors of all ages. On the ground floor, the "Past in the Present" exhibition provides an overview of the main historical periods covered in the museum's collections. The "Home Life" section offers insights into the daily lives of Aruba's indigenous settlers, showcasing domestic objects and tools. The upper floor features displays dedicated to artistic and sacred expression, as well as the early interactions between the indigenous people and European explorers and colonizers. Don't miss the fascinating recreations, including a reproduced Amerindian hut and a cave model displaying examples of cave art found on the island. NAMA is dedicated to researching, preserving, and interpreting Aruba's material history, educating visitors about the island's rich cultural heritage and inspiring them to preserve it. The museum also hosts cultural events and workshops, offering unique experiences that deepen understanding of Aruba's past.

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