Willemstad tourist information

Willemstad is the territorial capital of the Netherlands Antilles. Located at 12°7'N 68°56'W, on the island of Curaçao, it has an estimated population of 125,000. The city consists of two quarters: Punda and Otrobanda. They are separated by the St. Anna bay, an inlet that leads into the large natural harbour called the 'Schottegat'.

Punda was established in 1634, when the Dutch captured the island from Spain. The original name of Punda originally was de punt in Dutch. Otrobanda, which was founded in 1707, is the newer section of the city and is considered to be the cultural center of Willemstad. Its name originated from the Papiamentu otro banda, which means "the other side." Punda and Otrobanda are connected by a long pontoon bridge. The city center of Willemstad boasts an array of colonial architecture that is influenced by Dutch styles. The city center, with its peculiar architecture and beautiful harbour entry, has been made a UNESCO world heritage site.

Due to its location, Willemstad is the site of a seaport. The port of Willemstad has brought the island of Curaçao much prosperity. Willemstad became a center for oil refining by Royal Dutch/Shell in 1914.

The city also is a tourist destination and contains several gambling casinos.

Willemstad is served by Hato International Airport.

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