"Capital City of Curacao!"
In 1817, after being plagued by recurring headaches, which he blamed on the glare of white houses, Governor-genergal Albert Kikket passed a law that pastel colors must be used on all buildings.
This is why all the buildings here and in Willemstad are so vibrant.
Willemstad is the capital of Curacao and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage City.
Handelskade
Handelskade is the most breathtaking part of Punda. Gazing across Sint Annabaai at the colorful town houses lined up on the shore, you might think that you're in the Old Country. Until you remember that the sun is shining, it's 28°C (82°F), and you're on your way to the beach. Despite the flawless weather, Willemstad feels like a Dutch city, complete with waterways and street cafes.The Handelskade provides the quintessential photo opportunity and is a must-see sight on Curacao!
Museum Kura Hulanda
Located in a 19th-century merchant's house and slave quarters, this excellent museum documents the brutal history of slavery in the New World, including the slave trade, the culture of enslaved people, and abolition. There's also a fantastic collection of art and artifacts from West Africa – including a cool sculpture garden – showcasing the significant African influences on Caribbean culture.
Pontoon Bridge
Spanning Sint Annabaai, Queen Emma Bridge is sometimes called Our Swinging Old Lady. It's a pontoon bridge that swings open to make way for oceangoing ships. When the bridge is open, two free public ferries shuttle passengers back and forth between Punta and Otrobanda.
Jewish Museum
The 1651 Mikvé Israel Emanuel Synagogue has the oldest continuously operating Jewish congregation in the western hemisphere. Its small but fascinating museum occupies two 18th-century buildings that once housed the rabbi's residence and bathhouse. The museum's centerpiece is the original mikveh (bath), discovered during renovation. Also on display is a Torah scroll that was brought to Curaçao by the first Jewish settlers.
Riffort
The Riffort is located at the entrance of the St. Anna Bay in Otrabanda next to the renowned pontoon bridge in Willemstad.The fort was built in 1828/1829 to protect the entrance of the St. Anna Bay and the outer part of Otrabanda. At present the fort is freely accessible, and used as a shopping mall with cafes and restaurants. Many world renowned brands can be found here.
Marshe Nobo Market
Marshe Nobo means New Market. It is an indoor market in a round building in the center of Punda.The merchants sell local fruit and veggies as well as imported products. The market is open from early mornings till late afternoon.
Pietermaai
Pietermaai district is one of the most iconic and popular places in Curaçao. This neighborhood is diverse with various clubs, bars, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and other type of accommodations. All this diversity takes place in these iconic Dutch colonial homes that is part of our island’s heritage. There is something here for everyone, right next to Punda is Pietermaai Curaçao.
Punda Love Heart
As part of the ongoing beauty around Curacao and to celebrate the local artist community, Punda Vibes commissioned a celebratory heart sculpture by Carlos Blaaker.The sculpture is made of metal mesh and is called “Lock Your Love”. This sculpture is designed for lovers to clip a padlock to it to seal their loving bond.
Wilhelmina Park
In the heart of Curacao (Willemstad) at the Queen Wilhelmina Park you will see a picture with the letters "DUSHI" and "CURACAO" and the statue which is pretty typical if you are visiting Curacao. The park is named after Queen Wilhelmina from the Netherlands who reigned from 1890-1948.
