Fort Oranje
The first thing the Dutch did when they occupied St. Eustatius in 1636 was to build a fortress. They chose a strategic corner of the cliff for this, overlooking the Oranje Bay anchorage and the path that led from the beach to the rest of the island. The fort is named after the royal family of the Netherlands: the House of Oranje.
Old Dutch architecture
The fully restored Fort Oranje is located on the border of the upper town and the lower town of Oranjestad. The cannons and bastions still seem to stand guard over the island. Most striking is the old Dutch architecture with its bright, colorful, local influences.
Residences and town hall
Inside the fortress are buildings that originally served as the governor's and commander's residence, barracks and town hall. The flagpole, cistern and gunpowder magazine all date from the early days. From this fortress, the United States was formally recognized for the first time on November 16, 1776. Years later, in 1895, a prison was built in the fortress.
Other information
Location: bovenaan Bay Path, Oranjestad
Tours: Nee
Details: Plaques commemorating the first salute to the US, one of which was presented by US President F.D. Roosevelt.
Getting married with a magnificent view
Fort Oranje is one of the spectacular options for getting married on this island. Here you can make your wedding day the most beautiful day of your life? A wedding in a unique setting, with that relaxed Caribbean atmosphere and guaranteed beautiful photos? That will be a day to cherish forever. Would you like to know more about the conditions for getting married on St. Eustatius? Please contact the Census Office:
Census Office
Kenip Road, Princess Garden,
St. Eustatius
Phone: +59 93 18 24 97
E-mail: census.office@statiagov.com