Originally, the house was the focal point of an 852-acre (345-hectare) salt plantation overlooking the salt pans of St. Marie Bay. Today, some believe that Jan Kok’s bitter spirit haunts the land. Its dark history has been undercut by the brightness that artist Nena Sanchez has brought to the space.
Her vibrant works can be viewed at the landhuis, depicting island life in a bold, figurative style. It’s a great place to purchase artwork to take home, and the nearby salt pans are a must-visit for bird watchers hoping to spot some flamingos.
Due to the house’s age, be careful when exploring. The second floor has steep stairs and low ceilings.
Be aware and respectful of the house’s past—at one point, 100 enslaved people were kept there.
Don’t forget your camera; the nearby salt pans are a harsh and unusual environment to explore.
Located in the middle of the island, it’s a 30-minute drive north from the central city of Willemstad. If you don’t have your own car, opt for a tour that includes a stop at the house and gallery. It’s possible to take public transport—the 3B bus departs from Otrobanda Station and drops you at the Boka Sint Marie stop, a short walk from the house. However, it’s a roundabout route that takes about 1.5 hours.
Open from late morning to early evening, it’s a worthwhile stop if you’re taking a longer tour of the island. Arrive early for a quick visit and explore the nearby beach where flamingos wade. Be sure not to approach the birds—they startle easily and need to conserve energy to care for their young.
The house's grounds are filled with fantastical, colorful sculptures, making an excellent photo backdrop. Nena Sanchez won the title of Miss Curacao in 1966, so capture some of her photogenic spirit as you pose among the giant figures. The garden maintains the harsh, dry landscape of the region, with towering cacti and scraggly trees.