Heritage is Today

Preserving our past. Empowering our future
Our History

About NAAM

Historical background

NAAM was founded in 1998 by the National Government of the former Netherlands Antilles as a successor to AAINA (Archaeologisch-Anthropologisch Instituut Nederlandse Antillen).

Mission and Vision

At NAAM, heritage is more than preservation — it is a living source of identity, connection, and belonging. Through research, knowledge-sharing, and inclusive access to Curaçao’s cultural heritage, we help keep this legacy visible, relevant, and meaningful for present and future generations. 

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Events Calendar

21 April

Ancient Pompeii comes to life in major new exhibition

The volcanic eruption that destroyed Pompeii almost 2,000 years ago takes centre stage in a first-of-its-kind multisensory exhibition at the Museum in Canberra.

1pm-

2pm

25 April

Ancient Pompeii comes to life in major new exhibition

The volcanic eruption that destroyed Pompeii almost 2,000 years ago takes centre stage in a first-of-its-kind multisensory exhibition at the Museum in Canberra.

1pm-

2pm

29 April

Ancient Pompeii comes to life in major new exhibition

The volcanic eruption that destroyed Pompeii almost 2,000 years ago takes centre stage in a first-of-its-kind multisensory exhibition at the Museum in Canberra.

1pm-

2pm

Featured Project

NAAM Launches New Website as Part of Its Digital Transformation Journey 

Stichting NAAM is pleased to share the launch of its new website, a meaningful next step in the Foundation’s digital transformation journey. With this new platform, NAAM begins a phased process of bringing its work, knowledge, and heritage collection into a more accessible digital space.

One of the features that will be added soon is an interactive 3D model of Curaçao’s oldest archaeological site. Developed through photogrammetry, the model is part of the Curaçao Cultural Landscape Project (CCLP) and offers a new digital way to experience and study an important part of Curaçao’s heritage.

The website will be expanded in stages, with additional information and features added over time. Because of this gradual rollout, some content may not yet be available online. Anyone looking for specific information is encouraged to contact Stichting NAAM directly by email or phone.

The website will be expanded in stages, with additional information and features added over time. Because of this gradual rollout, some content may not yet be available online. Anyone looking for specific information is encouraged to contact Stichting NAAM directly by email or phone.

News

New Colleagues at NAAM

Thanks to the Erfgoed Medewerkers program, Stichting NAAM has welcomed two new team members as of July 2025. Until recently, the Foundation’s core team consisted of six staff members who carried out the organization’s activities and projects. With the expansion of the team, NAAM strengthens its capacity to further develop and share Curaçao’s cultural heritage.

Missed the Awa pa Kòrsou Symposium? Here’s What Happened 

If you were unable to attend the Symposium di Awa pa Kòrsou on  November 6, 2025, there’s still plenty to catch up on from this important event focusing on water, culture, and community on Curaçao. 

A Year in Review: Reflecting on 2025 

As we look back on 2025, Stichting NAAM reflects on a year of growth, innovation, and meaningful collaboration. This year marked important milestones in our ongoing mission to preserve and share the cultural heritage of Curaçao.  

Awa Pa Kòrsou

The National Museum’s Indigenous exhibitions offer transformative experiences through contemporary art and immersive elements.

Our Services

Research

NAAM researches Curaçao’s cultural heritage through archaeology, anthropology, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our work includes fieldwork, documentation, oral history, and policy support, helping to preserve heritage, deepen knowledge, and connect research with society. 

Collection Management

NAAM preserves, documents, and manages heritage collections that safeguard Curaçao’s cultural memory. Our work ensures that these collections remain valuable resources for research, education, and public access. 

Educational Resources

NAAM creates educational resources that bring Curaçao’s heritage closer to students, educators, researchers, and the community. By sharing knowledge in accessible ways, we help connect people with the island’s history, culture, and identity. 

Heritage Hotline

NAAM’s Heritage Hotline helps safeguard Curaçao’s cultural heritage by serving as a central point for urgent reports and concerns. From archaeological advice and new discoveries to threats, illegal activities, and illegal heritage traffic, the hotline supports timely documentation, assessment, and follow-up.