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Landhuis San Juan: A Window to Curaçao's Past

Explore Curaçao's colonial past at Landhuis San Juan, a historic plantation offering access to pristine beaches and a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage.

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Landhuis San Juan, nestled in the countryside of Curaçao, offers a captivating glimpse into the island's colonial history and natural beauty. Built in 1662, this former plantation house provides a serene escape from the bustling city, inviting visitors to explore its well-preserved architecture and lush surroundings. The landhuis boasts a rich history, having cultivated sugarcane, cotton, and indigo, and even raising livestock. Today, visitors can wander through the historic grounds, discover the remnants of its agricultural past, and enjoy access to the property's several beaches. Landhuis San Juan provides a unique opportunity to connect with Curaçao's heritage and experience the tranquility of its natural landscape, making it a worthwhile destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby beaches, each offering a unique coastal experience.

A brief summary to Landhuis San Juan

  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Bring cash for the entrance fee to access the Landhuis San Juan and its beaches, as card payments may not be accepted.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on dirt paths to explore the different beaches accessible from the landhuis.
  • Pack your own snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life at the San Juan beaches.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures while exploring the landhuis and beaches.
  • Check for local events or art exhibitions happening at Landhuis San Juan to enhance your visit with a cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Willemstad, take the Weg naar Westpunt road northwest. Continue for approximately 30 kilometers, passing through Tera Kora. Look for the sign to Soto and turn left. Follow the road, passing the entrance to Cas Abou. A few kilometers further, you'll see a sign for San Juan. Turn left at the red rock with the number 20-23 (dive site numbers) onto a dirt road. Follow the dirt road until you reach the Landhuis San Juan. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, take the bus towards Soto from the Otrabanda bus terminal. The bus ride takes approximately 55 minutes and costs $2. Once in Soto, you can walk to Landhuis San Juan, which is about a 10-minute walk. Head south on Weg naar Soto, and look for the entrance on your right, where you'll find a sign for Landhuis San Juan at 7W32+5HP, Soto, Curaçao.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Willemstad, a taxi or ride-share to Landhuis San Juan will take approximately 35 minutes. Expect to pay between $40 and $50, depending on traffic and the specific service. The taxi will drop you off directly at the entrance of Landhuis San Juan.

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Discover more about Landhuis San Juan

Landhuis San Juan, originally named St. John, stands as a remarkable testament to Curaçao's rich colonial past. Constructed in 1662, this former plantation is located between Cas Abou and Santa Martha, offering visitors a serene escape into the island's history and natural beauty. In its early days, Landhuis San Juan thrived as an agricultural hub, cultivating sugarcane, cotton, corn, and indigo. Livestock was also raised in the fertile valley surrounding the plantation. The estate's history is exceptionally well-documented, providing valuable insights into the lives of the island's early inhabitants and the plantation's operations. One unique aspect of Landhuis San Juan is its documented history of enslaved people, including a slave book detailing pregnant enslaved women who gave birth on the property. The main house, largely intact, showcases the architectural style of the 18th and 19th centuries. While the main house is not consistently open to the public, its exterior provides a glimpse into the past. The property has undergone renovations, including a fresh exterior renovation when it served as a filming location for the 2013 film 'Tula: The Revolt,' starring Danny Glover, a movie based on the Curaçao slave uprising of 1795. Today, Landhuis San Juan offers more than just a historical landmark; it provides access to some of Curaçao's most beautiful and undeveloped beaches. The San Juan beaches, four in total, each offer a unique coastal experience. From west to east, these include Playa Chiki, a small cove near Boca Grandi; Playa Manzaliña; Playa Shon Mosa; and Playa Largu. Each beach is accessible via dirt paths from the landhuis, allowing visitors to explore diverse landscapes and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Playa Chiki, a secluded paradise, offers calm waters and powdery white sand, perfect for a peaceful escape and snorkeling. Playa Manzaliña enchants with its natural beauty, while Playa Shon Mosa provides a tranquil haven for relaxation. Playa Largu, the easternmost beach, is known for its expansive stretch and unique underwater landscape, making it ideal for diving and snorkeling. The landhuis itself is nestled on the northern slope of a hill, near a courtyard adorned with kapok trees. The plantation complex includes the main house, various outbuildings, corals, a rainwater tank, an aqueduct, several magasina's (warehouses), stables, a well, and a cemetery. These elements collectively paint a picture of a self-sufficient plantation community. Visiting Landhuis San Juan is an immersive experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. The site often hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and local markets, offering a vibrant glimpse into contemporary Curaçaoan culture intertwined with its historical roots. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Landhuis San Juan promises an enriching experience that captures the essence of Curaçao's heritage. While exploring the grounds, take the time to appreciate the artifacts and exhibits that showcase the daily life of those who once inhabited this historic estate. The peaceful setting invites you to wander through its halls, engaging with the stories that each room holds. Don't miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the estate's exterior and the surrounding natural beauty. Landhuis San Juan is more than just a building; it's a window into a bygone era. It's a place where history comes alive, where the echoes of the past resonate with the beauty of the present. Plan your visit accordingly, as the estate may have specific hours of operation and event schedules that can enhance your trip. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a serene spot to enjoy the tropical scenery, Landhuis San Juan offers an enriching experience.

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