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Manor Savonet Museum: A Journey Through Curaçao's History

Discover Curaçao's captivating past at Manor Savonet Museum, nestled in Christoffel National Park, where history, culture, and nature intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

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The Manor Savonet Museum, nestled within the Christoffel National Park, offers a captivating glimpse into Curaçao's rich history and cultural heritage. Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century plantation house, the museum unveils the lives of the island's early inhabitants, from the Arawak Indians to the colonial era and beyond. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing historical artifacts, archaeological finds, and personal stories that bring the past to life. Wander through the museum's grounds, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, and discover the unique blend of culture and nature that defines Curaçao. A visit here provides a deeper understanding of the island's complex history and the diverse influences that have shaped its identity, making it a must-see destination for any traveler seeking an enriching cultural experience. The museum's commitment to preserving Curaçao's heritage ensures an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Manor Savonet Museum

  • Monday 6 am-2 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-2 pm
  • Friday 6 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the museum and its surroundings.
  • Combine your visit with a hike in Christoffel National Park to fully appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
  • Check for any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit to enhance your experience.
  • Consider taking a guided tour for in-depth insights into the exhibits and the history of the Savonet Plantation.
  • Don't forget your camera; the plantation house and the surrounding landscape offer fantastic photo opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Manor Savonet Museum using public transportation from Willemstad, take bus 9A from the Otrobanda bus terminal towards Westpunt. The bus departs approximately every 3 hours. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at Christoffel National Park. From the Christoffel National Park entrance, it's a short walk to the Savonet Museum. The bus fare is approximately 2 ANG (about $1.20 USD).

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, head west on Weg Naar Westpunt. Continue for approximately 40 minutes until you reach Christoffel National Park. The museum is located inside the park. Parking is available on-site. Note that there may be an entrance fee to Christoffel National Park, which also grants you access to the museum. The entrance fee for the park and museum is $15 USD for adults and $2 USD for children aged 6-12.

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Discover more about Manor Savonet Museum

Manor Savonet Museum, located within the boundaries of Christoffel National Park, is a cultural landmark that provides an immersive experience into the history of Curaçao. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 'landhuis' (plantation house) dating back to 1662, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of those who lived and worked on the Savonet Plantation, one of the island's oldest and largest plantations. The museum's exhibits begin with the earliest inhabitants of Curaçao, the Arawak Indians, showcasing artifacts and information about their way of life before European colonization. The majority of the museum focuses on the Savonet Plantation itself, detailing the lives of both the landowners and the enslaved people who worked the land. Visitors can learn about the plantation's operations, the crops that were cultivated, and the daily routines of those who lived there. The Savonet Plantation played a significant role in the Dutch slave trade, and the museum does not shy away from this difficult history. Exhibits explore the experiences of the enslaved Africans who were brought to Curaçao to work on the plantation, providing insight into their living conditions, their labor, and their cultural traditions. The museum also highlights the ways in which enslaved people resisted oppression and maintained their cultural identity. Even after the abolition of slavery in 1863, many formerly enslaved people continued to live and work on the Savonet Plantation. The museum explores this period of transition, examining the challenges and opportunities that faced the newly freed people. Visitors can learn about the ways in which they adapted to their new circumstances and built their own communities. The museum also delves into the cultural traditions of the Savonet's slaves and, by extension, those across the Caribbean. Visitors can learn about Santeria, a religion blending Catholicism and West African faiths, and other customs. Newborn babies were safeguarded for eight days after birth to protect them from a vampire-like creature known as the “èdze.” After marriage, the mother of the groom would visit the bridal suite. If she found the sheets stained with “Virgin Tears,” she would bring them in celebration to the mother of the bride. The two old biddies would then wash the sheets and hang them out to dry in the front yard, making sure that every passerby knew about the bride's chastity. Many Dutch women would give their babies to a “Yaya,” or nursemaid, for milking. The Yaya was responsible for the child's upbringing, and would often follow them into adulthood, eventually watching over their children as well. In addition to its historical exhibits, the Manor Savonet Museum also features displays on the natural history of the area. Visitors can learn about the unique flora and fauna of Christoffel National Park, including the Curaçao white-tailed deer, which is found nowhere else in the world. The museum also provides information about the park's hiking trails and other outdoor activities. The Savonet Plantation is especially unique because it showed the 'good' relations after the emancipation of the slaves, the 'free slaves' kept working at Savonet Plantation in exchange for a piece of land. This had unique consequences for Savonet, which continued functioning into the 1950's. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum to learn more about the history of the Savonet Plantation and the surrounding area. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the stories of the people who lived and worked on the plantation. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. The Manor Savonet Museum is committed to preserving and sharing the history of Curaçao. The museum's exhibits are well-researched and thoughtfully presented, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the island's past. The museum also plays an important role in promoting cultural tourism and educating local communities about their heritage. The museum is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the exhibits. The museum also has restrooms and a gift shop. A visit to the Manor Savonet Museum is an enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the history and culture of Curaçao. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, the Manor Savonet Museum is a must-see destination.

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