Penha Building, Curaçao, Dutch colonial building in Willemstad, Curaçao.
The Penha Building is a three-story colonial structure with corner balconies situated at the Handelskade waterfront in Willemstad. The structure features tall shuttered windows, curved gables with profiled moldings, and ground-level arcade galleries.
The building was originally constructed in 1708 as a warehouse and later served as a residence for the widow of a Dutch governor. It subsequently transformed into a commercial establishment used for trade and business activities.
The structure displays the yellow facade and ornamental details typical of Dutch Caribbean architecture found throughout the Punda district. The arcade galleries and decorative elements reflect the building style that merchants and traders favored during its commercial era.
The building houses a luxury perfume store on the ground floor and in the arcade galleries where visitors can purchase tax-free fragrances and beauty products. You can view the exterior and architectural details from the street while exploring the shop.
Two distinct dates marking 1708 are carved into both the east and west gables of this structure, each visible from different vantage points. This double marking is unusual and may indicate different construction phases or intentional documentation by the original builder.
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