Wilhelminastraat,
Where history meets innovation.
Welcome to Wilhelminastraat, where the past converges with the future. As a testament to Aruba’s rich history, Wilhelminastraat boasts magnificent monumental buildings that transport visitors back in time. Yet, it’s also a hub of innovation, where sustainable development meets cultural preservation. Our vision is to transform Wilhelminastraat into the crown jewel of Oranjestad, striking a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation. Join us on this journey as we embrace the charm of the past and the promise of the future.
About Wilhelminastraat
Wilhelminastraat, located in downtown Oranjestad, Aruba, holds a significant place in the island’s history and culture. Named after Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, the street serves as a reminder of Aruba’s colonial past and its ties to the Dutch monarchy.
In the early 20th century, Wilhelminastraat began to take shape as one of the main roads in Oranjestad, bustling with activity and commerce. The street became lined with magnificent monumental buildings, reflecting the architectural styles of the time and showcasing the island’s prosperity during the Dutch colonial period.
Throughout its history, Wilhelminastraat has witnessed the evolution of Oranjestad, from its days as a trading post to its development into a vibrant capital city. The street has been home to various businesses, shops, and cultural institutions, contributing to the buzzing atmosphere of downtown Oranjestad.
Today, Wilhelminastraat stands as a living testament to Aruba’s rich heritage, adorned with historic landmarks and buildings that evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm. As Aruba looks towards the future, efforts are underway to preserve and revitalize Wilhelminastraat, ensuring that its historic charm is maintained while also embracing sustainable development and modernization. With its blend of history, culture, and charm, Wilhelminastraat remains a cherished destination in downtown Oranjestad, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the beauty of Aruba’s past.
Tienda Habibe On August 6th, 1936, Nicky Habibe Jr. started a small grocery store (shop) on Wilhelminastraat. This was at the insistence of his friend Breenchi Arends, who used to manage the store but stopped to pursue his “hardware shop.” In the same year, Nicky Habibe started delivering groceries to small tankers. The store was small but operated smoothly.
The Eloy Arends Building, situated on Wilhelmina- straat in Oranjestad, stands out as one of the most beautiful Caribbean-style houses in the area. It was originally constructed by the late Dr. Jacobo Eloy Maria Arends, with architectural design by the Aruban architect Chibi Wever. In 1986, Jesus Eloy Arends sold the estate to the government of Aruba. In 1997, the building underwent a restoration process. Today, it serves as the City Hall.
Maintaining the historic charm
Brenchies
Wilhelminastraat 24
Welcome to Wilhelminastraat 24, a historic and versatile building located in the heart of the city. This property has a rich heritage and has served various functions over the years, contributing to the vibrant history of the area. With its distinctive architecture and prime location, Wilhelminastraat 24 continues to be a significant landmark, offering a blend of historical charm and modern utility. Whether you’re exploring its past or envisioning its future, this building stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the community.
My Taste of Aruba
Government office
This government office on Zoutmanstraat was built at the start of the 20th century by the Public Works Department of Curacao. The first stone was laid on September 10, 1910, by then acting governor, Hendrik Johannes Beaujon. The buidling was inaugurated with a party on March 25, 1911. The post office, the harbor office and the department of wireless telegraphy were located on the ground floor. The required batteries were charged by windmills on the west side, where the roundabout is currently located. The four rooms on the first floor housed the tax collector, the post office director, the counsel for prosecution, the official responsible for assessing ship cargo capacity, and few others. Over the years, this building has served numerous functions and has housed various organizations.
Cas Veneranda
The imposing building on Wilhelminastraat was built in 1936 by Frederico Maximiliaan (Machi Arends), the consul of Spain. The architect was the well-known master builder Dada Picus. One of the largest houses in Aruba at the time, built in Latin American neo-baroque style. Besides being a residential house, it was also a flower shop, an ice cream parlor and the consulate of Spain. In the nineties, the building became Papiamento Restaurant. After the restaurant left, the building remained empty and in 2014 a major fire destroyed much of the interior. In cooperation with the Arends family, Minister Wever, SMFA, Nationaal Restauratiefonds and APFA we will be able to preserve Cas Veneranda and its history for the future.
Small Protestant Church
This church was built in 1845-1846 for the protestant congregation of Aruba, established in 1822. The old church was built according to traditional design and construction methods using hewn rocks and coral stone and is located on a large lot confined by Wilhelminastraat, Schoolstraat, the Rifstraat and Klipstraat . The south front, portico and main entrance are situated on the Wilhelminastraat. In 1845 construction started, the stones of the demolished building were used for wall construction of the church. The church in Wilhelminastraat due to its location then close to the coastline was called ‘The church at the Bay’.
School 1888
Bistro de Suikertuin
La Casa Rosada
This merchant’s house is one of the few still existing Town-Country houses. It was probably built by order of Mr. Julio Habibe, who traded in aloë products. This building dates from 1904. On the ground floor there is a shop and above is the house that is accessible through an outside staircase. This building shows clear features the country house style from Curaçao. The building was named Casa Rosada by the beautiful pink color that it used to have.
La Casa Rosada is being restored by its current owners.
