Country houses The island's landhuizen were built from as early as the 17th century. After their emancipation in 1863 most former slaves continued to live in similar dwellings. Over the centuries most of these simple structures were reduced to mere rubble. The reconstructed Sorgum Stalk House Museum gives a feel for the rural life of bygone days. Their traditional architecture continues to influence Cura ao's contemporary architects.
Modern buildings echo the shapes and forms of the past.