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Landhuis Ascencion: A Window into Curaçao's Colonial Past

Explore Curaçao's colonial heritage at Landhuis Ascencion: a beautifully restored plantation offering historical insights and cultural experiences in a serene setting.

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Landhuis Ascencion, dating back to 1672, is a beautifully restored plantation house offering a glimpse into Curaçao's colonial history. Once a strategic point and agricultural estate, it now serves as a cultural and historical center, hosting events, exhibitions, and guided tours amidst serene surroundings.

A brief summary to Landhuis Ascencion

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month for the vibrant open house, featuring local artisans, music, and dance.
  • Take the guided tour on Thursday morning to gain in-depth knowledge about the history and architecture of the landhuis.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Boka Ascension, a scenic cove known for its natural beauty and potential sea turtle sightings.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Willemstad, head northwest on Weg Naar Westpunt. Continue for approximately 20 minutes, passing through Barber. Landhuis Ascencion will be on your left. There is a spacious, lockable parking lot next to the chapel. Parking is usually free.

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, take a bus towards Westpunt and ask the driver to stop at Barber. Buses depart from the Otrabanda bus station every 30 minutes. From Barber, walk northwest on Weg Naar Westpunt for about 10-15 minutes. Look for Landhuis Ascencion on your left. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately 2 ANG. Alternatively, take a taxi from the bus stop in Barber to Landhuis Ascencion for around $5-10.

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Discover more about Landhuis Ascencion

Landhuis Ascencion, or Asunshon as it's known locally, is a former plantation house in Curaçao with roots stretching back to 1672. Founded by Jurriaan Janszoon Exteen, the plantation and the landhuis are named after the former Caquetío village, Pueblo de la Madre de Dios Ascención, that once stood on the same grounds. Strategically perched on a hill near Barber, the landhuis not only benefited from the cooling trade winds but also served as a lookout point to communicate with neighboring estates, crucial for anticipating slave revolts. An iron eye in the top gable once held a torch for signaling. Initially, the plantation thrived due to the plentiful water supply, allowing for the successful cultivation of maize, cotton, and beans. However, the plantation transitioned to cattle breeding in the 19th century, and by 1836, it had deteriorated. In the early 20th century, the landhuis was home to writer and politician Cola Debrot, who penned his novel 'My Sister the Negress' here. Today, Landhuis Ascencion stands as one of the most beautifully restored and furnished country houses in Curaçao. Since 1965, after Stichting Monumentenzorg Curaçao (Curaçao Monuments Foundation) purchased the plantation in 1960, the Royal Dutch Navy used it as a training center. It now functions as a multifaceted cultural and historical center. Visitors can explore the grounds, delve into the island's colonial past through historical exhibits, and admire the architecture, including the impressive corner towers and galleries. The landhuis hosts a popular open house every first Sunday of the month, featuring a bustling artisan market, live music, traditional dance, and local cuisine. Guided tours are also offered every Thursday morning, providing deeper insights into the history and architecture. The location is also used by the coast guard and other divisions of the Dutch Navy.

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