The History and Scenery of Aruba's Churches

During the colonial period, Aruba and many of hercompared to the finest structures of Pennsylvania
Caribbean neighbors experienced an influx ofDutch country. Though the Protestant Church is
immigrants from throughout the world. As Arubausually locked, visitors can explore the grounds -
was once a colony of The Netherlands, the Dutchincluding the quaint Bible museum - each weekday
influence on Aruban culture is still strong and manyfrom 10am to 12pm.
current residents are descendants of DutchJewish families visiting Aruba often visit the Beth
colonizers. However, because of the diversity ofIsrael Synagogue, a pleasant house of worship
peoples that have called this island home, daily lifedating to the early 20th century. While the Jewish
in Aruba continues to be influenced by African,population in Aruba numbers only 35 families
South American and native Caribbean cultures.today, the synagogue was once an important
Nowhere is this exciting diversity more apparentcultural center for Caribbean and European
than in houses of worship found throughoutimmigrants. However, over the years, the Beth
Aruba. Though the island remains predominantlyIsrael Synagogue has become an important
Catholic, nearly all of the world's major religionsdestination for travelers. Today, most of the
are represented by the local population. Mostfamilies visiting the synagogue for Friday night
importantly for tourists, Aruba features a wealthservices are tourists enjoying a spiritual home
of special religious sites where visitors of all faithsaway from home. The Beth Israel Synagogue
can experience peaceful scenery and explorealso features a small gift shop that sells a variety
historic architecture.of uniquely Aruban Judaica.
One of the most photographed sights in Aruba isWhile many of the churches of Aruba are
the beautiful Chapel of Alto Vista. Resting abovecertainly worth a visit, one of the most interesting
the Caribbean Sea on an incredible bluff, this brightreligious sights on the island is the Lourdes Grotto.
yellow chapel has long been a special destinationLocated just off the picturesque leading from San
for locals and tourists alike. Before you evenNicolas to the northeastern coast, the Lourdes
arrive at the site, the white crosses lining the roadGrotto is located in one of Aruba's most peaceful
to the chapel - signifying the Catholic Stations oflocales. In 1958, a priest and his parishioners
the Cross - will let you know you've found acarefully tucked a statue of the Virgin Mary
uniquely peaceful place. As the chapel was builtweighing several hundred pounds into the
during colonial times by both Spaniards and nativeblackened hillside known as Seroe Preto. Much like
Indians, the chapel is also referred to as thethe famous Catholic landmark in France from
Pilgrim's Church. No matter what you call it, thewhich the grotto borrows its name, this hillside
chapel provides one of Aruba's most serene andshrine has become an important destination for
captivating experiences.locals and tourists alike. Each year on the feast
The Santa Ana Catholic Church, also known asday of Our Lady of Lourdes (February 11), a large
the Church of Noord, features one of the finestprocession of local Catholic and curious visitors
examples of Neo-gothic sculpture in the Caribbean.embark on a procession from the St. Theresita
The incredible altarpiece was crafted in 1870 byChurch in San Nicolas to hold mass at Lourdes
Dutch artisan Hendrik van der Geld and was metGrotto.
with great accolades at the first Vatican Council,As the island of Aruba has recently passed a
held that same year in Rome. After spendingmarriage law allowing travelers to wed on the
some time in residence at the Antonius Church inisland, these unique religious landmarks have also
The Netherlands, the altarpiece was given to thebecome the sites for many beautiful ceremonies.
Santa Ana Church in Aruba. The Santa AnaWhile the best of resorts in Aruba are able to
Catholic Church was first constructed in 1776 andprovide accommodations and lavish receptions,
was rebuilt twice in the 19th century. The churchmany of these houses of worship can offer
was last renovated in 1916 and today remainsvisiting couples an opportunity to celebrate their
one of the island's most important buildings.union in a peaceful and spiritual environment. While
Located just outside of Aruba's capital ofit may not be possible to wed in some of Aruba's
Oranjestad, the Santa Ana Catholic Church is achurches, couples hoping to tie the knot on the
fascinating piece of the island's history that can beisland can contact their resort and work with a
enjoyed by visitors of all faiths.wedding specialist to secure the best location for
While the Santa Ana Catholic Church and thetheir ceremony.
Chapel of Alto Vista were first constructed in theWhether you want to attend services or simply
18th century, Aruba's Protestant Churchsee some unique historical sites, the churches of
represents the island's oldest original house ofAruba welcome all visitors with open arms. As
worship. Erected in 1846 to support Aruba'smany of the island's houses of worship sit in
growing Protestant population, the elegant churchremarkably peaceful locales, tourists can also take
is known for its terracotta roof, large tower andtime to relax and witness incredible scenery.
traditional wooden shutters. As the exterior is alsoRegardless of your faith, the churches of Aruba
adorned with simplistic folk-art decorationsprovide some of the most captivating sights on
including hearts and stars, the church is oftenthe island.