Fortkerk 🇨🇼

Welcome to the Fort Church (Fortkerk), the most important church of the United Protestant Community in Willemstad, Curaçao. Located within the court of Fort Amsterdam, this historical landmark dates back to 1766 when it was built to serve the local garrison before being consecrated in 1769. Today, it stands as a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and an active place of worship that still hosts Sunday morning services in Dutch.

When you visit, you will step inside a remarkably preserved 18th-century structure featuring a mahogany pulpit and governor's bench crafted by designer Pieter de Mey in 1769. Take a look at the outer wall of the church to spot a real cannonball lodged inside, a striking remnant left behind from the British conquest of Curaçao in 1804. Beneath the main sanctuary, you can explore the basement museum, which showcases the history of the island's Protestant community.

Inside the museum, you will find the original 1766 clockwork designed by Dirk van der Meer, which is celebrated as a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. Whether you are interested in colonial architecture or local military events, the Fortkerk offers an intriguing look into Curaçao's past.

What to see at Fortkerk

• See the historic mahogany pulpit and governor's bench designed by Pieter de Mey in 1769.
• Examine a real 1804 cannonball embedded directly into the church's outer wall.
• Explore the basement museum dedicated to the history of the island's Protestant community.
• View the 1766 clockwork built by Dirk van der Meer, considered a true masterpiece.
• Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site housed inside the courtyard of Fort Amsterdam.

Visiting tips

Look closely at the church's exterior wall to spot the historic cannonball lodged there during the British conquest of 1804.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Sunday morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Fortkerk is easy to reach on Willemstad’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Curaçao synagogue and Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral, Willemstad. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Willemstad travel guide.