Opening session with keynote speaker

Lunch after the keynote session, followed by a harbor trip through the Sint Anna bay, the Curacao harbor.

Underwater heritage and archeology

Underwater heritage and archeology. Keynote speaker Peggy Leshikar-Denton. The Caribbean region has seen its fair share of maritime activity. Naval Battles were part of them. Many ships with goods, treasures and so on have found a resting place on the ocean floor. As search technology has improved over the past 50 years we have seen many discoveries each of which tell a story and further explain history.  

Welcome Reception (business casual)

Financing heritage preservation

Keynote speaker Michael de Sola. Caribbean economies are under pressure. International funding or donations are not what they used to be. Stronger than in the past, we have to rely on sources of income which are generated through sources like rent, inheritance, or local donations. The challenge remains.

Branding & marketing heritage

A large segment of the population in our region often considers these historical buildings as a hindrance to development. In their eyes the best solution is to push for demolishment. In this session we will look at ways and best practices to improve the awareness, appreciation for built heritage and ultimately its image.

City trip part 1 & diner buffet

During this first part of the city trip you will be exploring one of the historical districts of downtown, Otrobanda.  

City trip part 2 & sessions adaptive re-use of heritage

A brisk morning walk through the historical districts Punda and Scharloo. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes.

Adaptive re-use of built heritage

Keynote speaker Arno Boon. Many historical buildings have been lost. As the movement to protect our built heritage is slowly picking up speed we have to find new functions for these empty and often dilapidated buildings. Even the ones that have seen restoration during the past decades are often faced with these challenges. In these sessions we will demonstrate best practices and explore future possibilities for re-use.

Farewell & closing cocktail

Optional tour to the western part of Curaçao

On this day a tour is planned to the western part of the island. A great deal of the monumental plantation houses are located on this side of the island.