Kura Hulanda Museum Curaçao
One of the most important museums about the transatlantic slave trade in the world. Located in Otrobanda, Willemstad, on the site of a former slave market.
The leading slavery museum in the Caribbean
The Kura Hulanda Museum in Willemstad is one of the most powerful museums about the transatlantic slave trade. The museum was founded in 1999 by Dutch entrepreneur Jacob Gelt Dekker and is housed in a historically restored village in Otrobanda, on the site of an actual slave market from the 17th and 18th centuries.
The name Kura Hulanda means "Dutch courtyard" in Papiamento. The museum covers the entire African heritage on Curaçao and across the Caribbean, from the West African kingdoms before slavery to its consequences in society today. A visit takes 2 to 3 hours and is essential for anyone who wants to understand the island and its complex history. From our villa it is a 15 minute drive to the museum.
On a historic site
The museum sits on the foundations of an 18th century slave fort.
Beyond slavery alone
Also West African kingdoms, Mesopotamian civilisations and Curaçao's diverse communities.
Free audio tour
Available in Dutch, English, Spanish and German. Included with admission.
What you will see in the museum
Four main exhibitions you walk through during your visit.
The transatlantic slave trade
The core story of the museum. Through objects, a replica slave ship, shackles, chains and historical documents you see how the slave trade worked. The story of more than 12 million Africans who were traded is confronting and well documented here.
West African kingdoms
Before the slave trade, West African civilisations had rich trade networks, art and architecture. This exhibition shows that Africa was not an "empty" continent but a region of flourishing kingdoms like Ghana, Mali and Songhai.
The diversity of Curaçao
The museum also covers the Jewish, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and Latin American communities that have made Curaçao the multicultural island it is today. The story behind the Papiamento language is also told here.
Mesopotamian civilisations
A lesser known collection of the earliest human civilisations. Artefacts from Mesopotamia and the ancient Middle East put all of human history into perspective. An interesting bonus you would not expect.
Kura Hulanda Museum practical info
Everything you need to know before visiting. Prices and hours are indicative, check the official site for current info.
Curaçao and the transatlantic slave trade
Three storylines the museum tells, and which shaped the history of the island.
Curaçao as a trading hub
In the 17th and 18th centuries Curaçao was one of the largest slave markets in the Caribbean. Ships of the Dutch West India Company brought enslaved Africans to Otrobanda, where they were prepared and resold to plantations in North and South America. An estimated 100,000+ people passed through Curaçao.
The slave uprising of 1795
Led by Tula, a major uprising broke out on Curaçao in 1795 against the inhuman treatment of enslaved people. The uprising was brutally suppressed, but Tula is today remembered as a national hero. The museum tells his story in detail.
Abolition and legacy
Only in 1863, decades later than in many other countries, did the Netherlands abolish slavery in its colonies. The consequences still resonate today in Curaçao's society, language and culture. The museum makes this connection explicit.
Tips for your visit
Go in the morning
Early morning is quieter and you have more energy for heavy content. Afternoons are busier, especially when cruise ships are in port.
Take the audio tour
Included with admission and strongly recommended. Gives much more context than the labels alone.
Combine with Otrobanda
After the museum walk through the beautifully restored neighbourhood. The colourful houses and restaurants are part of the same Kura Hulanda Village.
Lunch in the village
Several restaurants in Kura Hulanda Village, ideal for relaxing after a heavy visit.
Do not miss the pontoon bridge
The Queen Emma Bridge connects Otrobanda with Punda. A scenic walk and a great photo moment.
Cash or card
Tickets at the desk, card usually works. Keep USD or ANG handy for souvenirs in the museum shop.
A 15 minute drive from 3 Palabrua
Our villa 3 Palabrua sits right on the Spanish Water in Jan Sofat. The Kura Hulanda Museum in Otrobanda is about a 15 minute drive. Combine well with a walk over the pontoon bridge to Punda, lunch in the neighbourhood and possibly a visit to another museum. Make it a half day in Willemstad.
Frequently asked questions about Kura Hulanda Museum
The most common questions before planning your visit.
How much is a ticket to the Kura Hulanda Museum?
What are the opening hours?
Where is the Kura Hulanda Museum located?
How long does a visit take?
Is the Kura Hulanda Museum suitable for children?
What does Kura Hulanda mean?
Is there an audio tour?
What else is there in Kura Hulanda Village?
Can I walk from the cruise terminal?
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