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Plantation House Kenepa: A Window to Curaçao's Past

Explore Curaçao's colonial past at Plantation House Kenepa, a window into the island's history, culture, and the fight for emancipation.

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Plantation House Kenepa, or Landhuis Kenepa, is a beautifully restored 17th-century country estate that offers a glimpse into Curaçao's colonial past and the lives of those who lived and labored on the island. It's best known as the place where the seeds of slave emancipation in Curaçao first took root.

A brief summary to Plantation House Kenepa

  • 8VW4+GWF, Weg Naar Westpunt, Willemstad, CW

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler morning hours for a more comfortable experience exploring the grounds and exhibits.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the plantation's history and the significance of the Tula slave rebellion.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Grote Knip or Kleine Knip beaches for a relaxing afternoon.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking around both indoor and outdoor areas, including potentially uneven terrain.
  • Check the museum's schedule for any special events or exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, head west on Weg naar Westpunt for approximately 40 minutes. Look for signs indicating Landhuis Kenepa. Parking is available on-site. Note that the road can be narrow and winding in some sections. From Playa Kenepa, drive south on Carretera Kenepa Chiki, then turn left onto a dirt road just after passing the Playa Kenepa Restaurant.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Plantation House Kenepa by public transport from Willemstad, take Bus 3C towards Lagun from the Otrobanda bus terminal. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near Landhuis Kenepa. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the plantation. A one-way bus fare costs approximately 2.50 ANG (about $1.40 USD). Be aware that bus schedules can be infrequent, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taking a taxi or ride-share from Willemstad is a convenient but more expensive option. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and the fare typically ranges from 60-80 ANG (approx. $34-$45 USD). Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxi stands can be found at the airport, near many hotels, and at the Brionplein in Otrobanda in Willemstad.

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Discover more about Plantation House Kenepa

Landhuis Kenepa, dating back to 1693, stands as a significant historical landmark on Curaçao, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the island's rich, and often turbulent, past. The plantation is named after the Kenepa fruit tree. Originally, it was one of Curaçao's largest and wealthiest plantations, producing divi-divi seed-pots for tanning and sheep wool. The main house, with its yellow walls, white trim, and red-tiled roof, reflects typical Dutch colonial architecture. Wide galleries and spacious terraces were designed to capture cooling sea breezes. However, Landhuis Kenepa's historical importance extends beyond its agricultural output. It is best known as the place where the seeds of slave emancipation in Curaçao first took root. On August 17, 1795, enslaved people, led by Tula, refused to work, sparking a month-long rebellion that marked a pivotal moment in Curaçao's history. In 2005, the government restored Landhuis Kenepa, and in 2007, Museo Tula was established on the site. This museum preserves and displays the rituals, customs, history, and culture of Afro-Curaçaoans. Through exhibits, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the lives of enslaved people, the impact of slavery on Curaçaoan society, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. The museum provides valuable historical context, while the surrounding grounds offer a tranquil setting for reflection. Guided tours are available and recommended. Beyond the historical aspects, Landhuis Kenepa also offers natural beauty, overlooking the surrounding countryside and two stunning beaches: Grote Knip and Kleine Knip. Visitors can combine a visit with a relaxing afternoon on the beach.

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