A Year of Monumental Achievements for Aruba’s Cultural Heritage

The Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba (SMFA) has made remarkable progress in 2024, achieving significant milestones in restoring and preserving Aruba’s cultural heritage. From acquiring iconic monuments to launching community-focused projects, SMFA’s dedication to safeguarding Aruba’s history shines brightly.

Key Accomplishments in Restoration and Acquisition

Restoration of Cas Veneranda
In partnership with the Government of Aruba, SMFA initiated the restoration of the Cas Veneranda building at Wilhelminastraat 7. Supported by Algemeen Pensioenfonds Aruba (APFA) and Nationaal Restauratiefonds, this ambitious project began with structural cleaning and preparation for restoration. By the end of 2025, Cas Veneranda will be fully restored, serving as the Department of Economic Affair’s office while offering a space for horeca services.

Growing SMFA’s Monument Collection
SMFA’s collection now boasts 18 monuments, with recent acquisitions like Cas Debrot on Betico Croes Street and the John G. Eman building. The restoration of Aruba cultural heritage will not only enhance their historical value but also contribute to Oranjestad’s revitalization. The organization plans to begin the restoration of Cas Debrot by the end of 2025, converting its upper floor into SMFA offices.

Maintenance Projects: Safeguarding Historic Structures

SMFA diligently maintains its monuments throughout the year. Key projects in 2024 included work on:

• Watertoren San Nicolas: Completed extensive maintenance to preserve this iconic structure.
• Huisje Wild: Repairs and structural evaluations to ensure safety and longevity.
• Nicolaas Store: Enhancements like air conditioning and glass doors for Kulture Café visitors, ensuring comfort without compromising the monument’s integrity.
• Eloy Arends Building & Hotel Colombia: Repairs to façades and interiors, including salt damage treatment and repainting.

Looking ahead, SMFA plans to preserve iconic landmarks like the California Lighthouse and Casita Geel, ensuring they remain part of Aruba’s cultural legacy.

Community Engagement Through Awareness and Education

Dutch Caribbean Heritage Platform Initiatives
As a proud member of the Dutch Caribbean Heritage Platform, SMFA collaborates with regional and international organizations to preserve and promote Aruba’s cultural heritage. Courses, webinars, and a tenth-anniversary conference in Sint Maarten highlighted their shared commitment to heritage preservation.

Exciting Educational Projects

• Tales of Cas Veneranda: A storytelling initiative that invites community members to share their memories and photos of the iconic site.
• Eagle History Tour: This project celebrates Aruba’s role during World War II with light art installations, information panels, and audio tours through the izitravel app. Local students have also been engaged through excursions to explore the Eagle refinery’s history.
• Wikipedia on Aruba: In partnership with Wikimedia Nederland and local organizations, SMFA is boosting online content about Aruba’s heritage, making it accessible to a global audience.

Events and Volunteer Contributions

SMFA’s volunteer-led projects have gained widespread recognition. The Biba Nos Herencia initiative, known for its Instameets and social media campaigns, has documented thousands of photographs showcasing Aruba’s cultural treasures. Volunteers were even nominated for the prestigious Erfgoedvrijwilligersprijs.

In September, SMFA hosted the inaugural Open Monumentendag Aruba, attracting families and history enthusiasts to 13 Oranjestad monuments. The event featured live music, dance, and storytelling, creating an unforgettable experience.

Join Us in Preserving Aruba’s Cultural Heritage

SMFA’s work wouldn’t be possible without the support of its team, partners, and sponsors. As we gear up for another monumental year, we thank everyone who contributed to preserving Aruba’s past for future generations.

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