Heritage on Sint Eustatius
So much has happened on this Dutch Caribbean island in recent centuries that you can find culture everywhere. Our historical heritage has been well preserved both on land and under water, so you can get the full picture of our diverse, cultural landscape.
Heritage on Sint Eustatius: Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the only city on Statia and is also the smallest capital in the world! A rugged cliff divides the city into the upper town and the lower town. After a thorough restoration, the historic center of the upper town is now the cultural treasure trove of the Caribbean, but you can also “feel” the history of the lower town: walking past the wave-battered ruins of 18th-century warehouses, you can almost hear the faint echo of spirited merchant voices plying their trade.
Underwater heritage
Dive into Sint Eustatius’ shimmering waters to an underwater discovery of more than a dozen 18th- century shipwrecks at the bottom of the ocean! Hundreds of meters of old city wall and remains of warehouses, clay pipes and pottery present a perfect mystery for divers and snorkelers alike to unravel at their leisure. A whole new world awaits you!
Heritage organization
The Sint Eustatius Historical Foundation is the oldest heritage organization on the island, founded in 1974. The organization researches and preserves historical documents and utensils in the museum above.
The youth group, the Simon Doncker Club, organizes activities to engage young people in the history and culture of the island. The activities are funded by grants, museum entrance fees, sales in the museum shop of Sint Eustatius Historical Foundation Museum and Gallery on the Bay, and guided historical walking tours.
Want more information? Check out www.steustatiushistory.org