CUR TravelGuide 02.04.20 - Flipbook - Page 65
OTROBANDA
Otrobanda means ‘the other side’ and was first settled in 1707 when they simply
ran out of space in Punda. The buildings in the Breedestraat were constructed
to mirror those in Punda, with commercial space downstairs and living quarters
above. By 1774, Otrobanda had grown as large as Punda. In the 18th and 19th
centuries, freed slaves began moving to the city and the spacious dwellings of
Otrobanda were renovated into more modest living quarters and small shops.
With the establishment of its first working-class neighborhood, the city center
took shape. In the 20th century, Otrobanda became an important cultural
center for the emerging Afro-Caribbean middle class on the island. In contrast
to Punda’s orderly grid, a maze of winding streets and alleyways give Otrobanda
a more intimate feel.
Over the last few years community building projects, street parties and street
art have revitalized the neighborhood, especially the Ser’i Otrobanda area.
TO DO IN OTROBANDA:
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Walking tour. A walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide is a great
way to learn about the history and architecture of Otrobanda.
Curaçao Museum. Housed in a listed building from 1853, this museum
stands as the oldest in Curaçao. You’ll find work by local and international
artists, a diverse collection of antique furniture from the 18th and 19th
centuries, and a traditional Curaçaoan kitchen. In the sculpture garden
there’s also a children’s village for kids to explore on their own.
Kurá Hulanda. This small, but excellent museum traces the history of
slavery in the Caribbean and celebrates the cultures of the West African
regions that many slaves came from. Kurá Hulanda boasts the most
comprehensive collection of African artifacts in the Caribbean.
Netto Bar on Breedestraat has been making and serving ròm bèrdè (green
rum) since 1954. The cozy bar fills up with locals and tourists in the afternoon.
Rif Fort. Built in 1828, this waterfront fort has been transformed into an
entertainment center and shopping area. Local musicians perform live on
the weekends.
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