Willemstad, Curaçao

Curaçao is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea that forms a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The capital city is the charming Willemstad, which is divided into two parts by the Sint Anna Bay -- an inlet that leads into the large natural harbour called the Schottegat. The two halves, Punda and Otrabanda (“Other Side”), are joined by the Koningin Emma (“Queen Emma”) Bridge. Because of the prevalence of the Dutch influence throughout the years, colonial Dutch architecture is seen in many of the historic buildings in Curacao; however a number of other influences are also represented. Interestingly, its rich architectural history has also been shaped by the tropical climate and architectural styles from towns across the Caribbean. The result is a European architectural style with regional adaptations in a rich array of Caribbean colours -- a tradition which dates back to 1817. Predominant colours are red, blue, yellow ochre and various shades of green.