National Archaeological Museum Aruba
About This Museum
I stumbled upon this incredible museum tucked away on a quiet street in Oranjestad, and it completely changed my perspective on Aruba. The whole place is dedicated to the island's deep Amerindian roots, stretching back thousands of years before the resorts ever existed. You can get so close to the artifacts—I was practically face-to-face with ancient pottery and tools used by the Caquetío people. It’s a quiet, almost intimate space that feels more like a discovery than a formal exhibit. Honestly, it’s a must-see if you want to understand the real heart of the island.
Collection Highlights
The displays of ceramic vessels and burial urns are fascinating, but what really stuck with me were the delicate shell and stone tools—you can almost picture someone using them. They also have these incredible skeletal remains found at the Tanki Flip site, which really makes the history feel tangible.
Visitor Information
It's easy to find at Schelpstraat 42 in Oranjestad, just look for the charming historic buildings. It's a nice break from the sun and crowds, and you can easily see everything in an hour or two.
Architecture & Building
The museum is housed in a beautiful, restored complex of Dutch Colonial buildings called 'Ecury Complex,' all done in that classic style with crisp white walls and those distinctive deep-set windows under a red-tiled roof.
Contact & Location
Address: National Archeological Museum of Aruba, 42, Schelpstraat, Rancho, Oranjestad Oost, Oranjestad, Aruba, Nederland
Phone: +297 582 8979
Website: Visit Website
