Beyond the Beaches: Exploring Curaçao’s Historic Forts

🇨🇼 Beyond Curaçao’s beaches and colorful streets, old cannons and stone walls tell a very different story. Join us as we explore Fort Beekenburg and Fort Waakzaamheid—historic defenses with Caribbean views and stories that change the way you see the island. At Fort Beekenburg, overlooking Caracas Bay, we explore the round stone tower, cannon positions, and defenses built to protect this part of Curaçao’s coastline. With construction beginning in 1703, this remarkable fort offers a glimpse into the island’s military past. Then we head above Otrobanda to Fort Waakzaamheid, where the story takes a dramatic turn. In 1804, British forces took the position and used the hill to bombard Willemstad. An authentic historical map helps us understand how the city’s defenses—and its vulnerabilities—shaped the attack. If you enjoy history, coastal views, and exploring Curaçao beyond the beach, come along for the journey. 📍 IN THIS VIDEO • Fort Beekenburg and Caracas Bay • Historic cannons and coastal defenses • Fort Waakzaamheid overlooking Otrobanda • The British attack of 1804 • A historical map drawn in 1805–1806 • Views of Curaçao’s coastline and Willemstad 🎬 WANT TO EXPLORE MORE? Watch our separate video dedicated to Rif Fort, right here on the channel. 🗺️ PLAN YOUR CURAÇAO ADVENTURE Explore beaches, restaurants, activities, places to stay, and our interactive island map: https://www.therealcuracao.com 📱 THE REAL CURAÇAO APP Find The Real Curaçao on the App Store and Google Play. Download it free to help you explore the island. 💬 Which would you visit first—Beekenburg by the bay or Waakzaamheid above the city? Tell us in the comments! 👍 Enjoyed exploring with us? Like this video and subscribe to The Real Curaçao for more island guides, local experiences, and stories behind the places you visit. 📷 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LifeResetCaribbean/ 📜 HISTORICAL RESEARCH Curaçao Monuments, Stichting Monumentenzorg Curaçao, NAAM heritage education materials, and Atlas of Mutual Heritage. Historical map: “Schets van het Eiland Curaçao,” circa 1805–1806. Collection: Nationaal Archief, reference VEL1438. https://www.atlasofmutualheritage.nl/page/7281/map-of-the-1804-battle-at-cura%C3%A7ao ℹ️ These are historic sites. Access and conditions can change; follow local signs and take care on steps and uneven surfaces. #Curacao #FortBeekenburg #Willemstad #CaribbeanTravel #TheRealCuracao