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The Curaçao Museum: A Cultural Cornerstone

Discover Curaçao's oldest museum, showcasing art, history, and culture in a beautifully preserved colonial-era military hospital.

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Housed in a former military hospital, The Curaçao Museum is the island's oldest museum, showcasing a rich collection of art, artifacts, and historical objects from the 18th to the 21st centuries. Explore Curaçao's cultural heritage through paintings, furniture, and exhibits detailing its history.

A brief summary to The Curaçao Museum

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Explore the sculpture garden for a relaxing stroll amidst local artwork.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the museum's collection and the history of Curaçao.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Queen Emma Bridge in Willemstad's city center, walk west through the Otrobanda district. Follow the main road, Breedestraat, as it curves slightly to the left. Continue onto Van Leeuwenhoekstraat. The Curaçao Museum will be on your right, approximately a 15-20 minute walk.

  • Public Transport

    From either the Punda or Otrobanda bus terminal, take a Konvoi bus that stops near the Curaçao Museum. Bus routes and schedules can be found at the terminals. Ask the driver to alert you when you reach the closest stop on Van Leeuwenhoekstraat. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. A single bus fare is approximately 1.70 ANG.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at the Willemstad cruise port and major hotels. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A taxi ride from the cruise port to the Curaçao Museum typically costs around $20-$30 USD. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Car

    From the city center, follow the main roads towards Otrobanda. Once in Otrobanda, navigate to Van Leeuwenhoekstraat. The Curaçao Museum will be on your left. Limited free parking is available in front of the museum. Be mindful of parking fees that may apply.

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Discover more about The Curaçao Museum

The Curaçao Museum, or Curaçaosch Museum, stands as a cultural cornerstone on the island, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and artistic heritage. Established in 1948, it is the oldest museum in Curaçao, housed within the walls of a former military hospital dating back to 1853. The museum's collection spans from the 18th to the 21st centuries, featuring a diverse array of paintings by local and international artists, antique Curaçaoan furniture, and intriguing historical artifacts. One of its highlights is the cockpit of the 'Snip,' the first KLM airplane to cross the Atlantic from the Netherlands to Curaçao. Visitors can also explore a traditional Curaçaoan kitchen, a carillon dating from 1951, and a sculpture garden showcasing works by local artists. The museum's exhibits also delve into the island's geological history and pre-Columbian Indian artifacts. Maps of America and the Caribbean, along with exhibits on post-slavery Afro-Curaçaoan professions and traditional plantation life, provide a comprehensive look at Curaçao's cultural evolution. The building itself, a former military hospital, adds another layer of historical significance to the museum. During World War II, it served as an internment camp for Jewish women and children. Located in the Otrobanda district of Willemstad, the Curaçao Museum offers a fascinating blend of art, history, and culture. With its mix of permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, each visit promises a unique experience.

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