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Kas di Pal'i Maishi: A Window to Curaçao's Past

Experience Curaçao's Afro-Curaçaoan heritage at this open-air museum, showcasing a traditional 19th-century 'kunuku' house and rural life.

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Kas di Pal'i Maishi, or Kunuku House, is a meticulously restored 19th-century rural house offering an immersive glimpse into the lives of Afro-Curaçaoans between 1850 and 1950. Located near Willemstad, this open-air museum showcases traditional architecture, artifacts, and cultural practices, providing an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Kas di pal'i maishi - Kunuku House

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the outdoor grounds and participating in interactive activities.
  • Try the local food served in the backyard for an authentic taste of Curaçaoan cuisine.
  • Check the schedule for cultural events and workshops to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Willemstad, take Weg Naar Westpunt. The museum is located on the right side of the road, approximately a 15-minute drive from Mahaai. Look for the clearly marked entrance. Free parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, take a bus heading towards Westpunt. Board the bus at the Otrobanda bus station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Inform the driver that you want to get off at Kas di Pal'i Maishi, a short walk from the bus stop. Bus fare is approximately 2-5 ANG.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Willemstad. A taxi ride from Willemstad to Kas di Pal'i Maishi takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey; expect to pay around 40-60 ANG. Tipping is customary (around 10% of the fare).

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Discover more about Kas di pal'i maishi - Kunuku House

Step back in time at Kas di Pal'i Maishi, a living museum that preserves and celebrates the Afro-Curaçaoan heritage. This traditional 'kunuku' house, dating back approximately 130 years, showcases the architectural ingenuity and resourcefulness of the island's rural population. 'Kunuku' refers to the countryside of Curaçao, and these homes were once a common sight, dotted across the landscape. Meaning 'house of sorghum stalks,' Kas di Pal'i Maishi reflects the simple construction methods using locally sourced materials. Walls were often made of wattle and daub, a mixture of clay and cow dung, providing natural insulation against the Caribbean heat. The roofs, thatched with sorghum stalks, offered further protection from the elements. Inside, you'll discover a collection of authentic artifacts, tools, and furnishings that paint a vivid picture of daily life in rural Curaçao. Explore the different rooms, each meticulously recreated to reflect its original purpose, including the kitchen, typically located outside the main house, featuring a traditional wood-fired oven. Interactive tours, led by knowledgeable guides, bring the history of Kas di Pal'i Maishi to life. Through storytelling, demonstrations, and hands-on activities, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the customs, traditions, and beliefs that shaped rural Curaçaoan society. Learn about the importance of agriculture, the role of music and dance in community life, and the spiritual practices that guided people's lives. The backyard features vibrant murals by local artists, adding a contemporary layer to the historical setting. These murals depict scenes from Curaçaoan life, celebrating the island's cultural diversity and artistic talent.

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