Fort Zoutman & Willem III Tower
Fort Zoutman
Built in 1798, Fort Zoutman is Aruba's oldest structure. The adjacent William III Tower once doubled as a lighthouse and now houses a history museum.
Fort Zoutman was built in 1798 to defend against pirates and the British, and it is the oldest surviving building on the island. The William III Tower, added in 1868, once served as both a lighthouse and a public clock. Inside the fort is the Aruba Historical Museum, which covers the island's indigenous peoples, the colonial era and the oil industry. The fort once hosted the Bon Bini Festival, showcasing local music, dance and street food. Dates are announced locally. It sits in the city centre and is within walking distance.
Opening hours
Museum approx. 09:00–16:00 (may close on weekends)
Nearby sights
- Oranjestad
- National Archaeological Museum Aruba
- Flamingo Beach (Renaissance Island)
- Aruba Aloe Factory
- Eagle Beach
- Hooiberg
- Casibari Rock Formations
- Butterfly Farm Aruba