National Archaeological Museum Aruba, Sero Blanco Travel Guide

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Discover Aruba's ancient past at the National Archaeological Museum, showcasing 5000 years of indigenous culture and history in Oranjestad.

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National Archaeological Museum Aruba

The National Archaeological Museum Aruba (MANA) in Oranjestad showcases over 5,000 years of Aruban history, from 2500 BCE to the 19th century. Located in the beautifully restored Ecury family complex, the museum features Amerindian artifacts and interactive exhibits that bring Aruba's cultural heritage to life.

A brief summary to National Archaeological Museum Aruba

Schelpstraat 42, Oranjestad, Oranjestad-West, AW
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring National Archaeological Museum Aruba.

Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's collections and exhibits.

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Getting There

Walking

The National Archaeological Museum Aruba is located in downtown Oranjestad, easily accessible on foot from most hotels, the cruise terminal, and major shopping areas. From the Main Street (Caya Betico Croes), walk east towards the Parliament building. The museum is located on Schelpstraat, a short walk from the main road. Look for the distinctive Ecury complex.
Public Transport

Arubus, the public bus service, offers a convenient and affordable way to reach the museum. The central bus station in Oranjestad is located next to the cruise terminal and Royal Plaza. From the bus station, it's a short walk to the museum on Schelpstraat. A single bus fare costs approximately Afl 2.25 (about US$1.30).
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Oranjestad. A short taxi ride from the hotel area or cruise terminal to the National Archaeological Museum will typically cost between US$7 and US$10. Note that there may be a surcharge of $3 on Sundays, official holidays, and between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Parking

If driving, paid parking is available in the downtown Oranjestad area. Parking spaces are marked with white lines and registration numbers. Payment can be made at nearby kiosks using local or US coins, or credit cards. Hourly rates are approximately Afl 2 (US$1.14). Free parking may be found in the Renaissance hotel lots south of Lucy's Retired Surf Bar. Be aware of yellow-lined spaces, which are for permit holders only.

Discover more about National Archaeological Museum Aruba

The National Archaeological Museum Aruba (MANA), situated in the heart of Oranjestad, invites visitors to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Aruba. The museum's collections span over 5,000 years, from 2500 BCE to the 19th century, offering a comprehensive look at the island's pre-Columbian and early colonial past.The museum is housed within the beautifully restored complex that once belonged to the prominent Ecury family, adding another layer of historical significance to the site. Boy Ecury, an Aruban war hero known for his involvement in the Dutch resistance during World War II, once lived in this home. In 2009, the museum moved to this location, transforming a centrally located monumental complex into a state-of-the-art museum.Inside, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits spread over two floors. The ground floor features the "Past in the Present" exhibition, providing an overview of the main historical periods covered in the museum's collections and information about the museum's founding. The "Home Life" section displays domestic objects and tools, offering insights into the daily lives of Aruba's indigenous settlers, who arrived by canoe from the mainland around 2,500 years ago.Upstairs, exhibits focus on artistic and sacred expression, as well as the early interactions between the indigenous people and European explorers and colonizers. Reconstructed environments, including an Amerindian hut and a cave model displaying examples of cave art found on the island, enhance the visitor experience. The museum also showcases over 10,000 Amerindian artifacts, including pottery, shell, stone, bone, and glass items. These artifacts reflect Amerindian and spiritual life, as well as Aruba's communication network with Europe, Mexico, and central South America.MANA's mission is to educate, motivate, and inspire visitors to actively learn about, preserve, and respect Aruba's heritage. The museum also plays an active role in researching the collections, leading excavations, and preserving key heritage sites, including the cave paintings in Arikok National Park.