Savaneta Takes Center Stage at the Opening of Open Monument Day 2026

The event, organized by the Aruba Monuments Fund Foundation in collaboration with the Savaneta Foundation and the Department of Culture Aruba, brought together neighborhoods, distinguished residents, cultural groups, and communities to celebrate the historical heritage that forms an essential part of Aruba’s identity.

The opening ceremony took place at FUNARI and began with a symbolic act in which a key from the Aruba Monuments Fund Foundation was passed from hand to hand among young people, distinguished residents, Prime Minister Mike Eman, and representatives of the participating organizations. The gesture symbolized the shared responsibility of opening the doors to our history and preserving our heritage for future generations.

Petra Davids, Director of the Aruba Monuments Fund Foundation, officially opened the program. She emphasized that the foundation manages nineteen protected monuments and is responsible for their care, management, and maintenance. In addition, the foundation organizes a variety of activities throughout the year to increase public awareness and knowledge of Aruba’s monuments. Davids highlighted Open Monument Day as one of the organization’s most important annual initiatives.

As a relatively small organization, collaboration with a wide range of partners is essential to achieving the foundation’s goals. Davids noted that this year’s edition is dedicated to Savaneta, a place of exceptional historical significance to Aruba. Savaneta served as the island’s first seat of government and continues to preserve historic monuments, cultural landscapes, and traditions that remain an important part of Aruba’s national identity.

During his remarks, Prime Minister Mike Eman expressed his appreciation for Petra Davids in her new role as Director of the Aruba Monuments Fund Foundation. He also acknowledged the important work carried out by the foundation to preserve Aruba’s historical and cultural heritage. The Prime Minister thanked Norman Thijsen and the Savaneta Foundation for their efforts to strengthen community spirit and civic engagement.

“Renovation is important to ensure that we can preserve and restore our buildings for future generations,” Prime Minister Eman said.

In his speech, the Prime Minister broadened the concept of a monument beyond historic buildings. According to him, Aruba’s monuments include homes, schools, and other structures, but also individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving their community and country.

“Just as we have monuments in the form of buildings, schools, and homes, we also have monuments in the form of people,” Prime Minister Eman stated.

In this context, he paid tribute to former Governor Fredis Refunjol and other distinguished residents who, through their careers, dedication, and love for Savaneta and Aruba, have inspired new generations.

Prime Minister Eman concluded his message with a call to continue strengthening the bonds within the community. At a time when many people are focused on their responsibilities, careers, and ambitions, he emphasized the importance of caring for one another, showing appreciation, and reinforcing the sense of community that unites the Aruban people.

Following the official ceremony, attendees enjoyed a cultural program featuring scouting groups, local artists, dance groups, and various cultural organizations. The program highlighted the cultural richness of Savaneta and the value of heritage as a living part of Aruba’s national identity.

Open Monument Day 2026 offers the community an opportunity to discover, appreciate, and celebrate Aruba’s monuments, history, and traditions. With Savaneta serving as the focal point of this year’s edition, the event reaffirmed the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.