WILLEMSTAD - “Kiko ku e hasi e ta Bona”- this statement references Psalm 1:3 and roughly translates to “whatever it does it prospers’. This statement is most appropriate for Roi Rincon Park as it reflects on the abundance the park’s natural water source has gifted the island throughout the centuries. This endless stream of water can be traced back to the Arawak Indians who used the water as potable water and to the slaves who used the water for nourishment while hiding in the nearby Hato Caves. Throughout the centuries, this natural water source has aided the locals providing fresh water in a constant stream to the community. No matter the conditions of the island, the stream does not stop flowing.
This water source is still used by the community today and is accessed through the Park established around it. The Park is managed by Uniek Curacao who is contracted by Curaçao Airport Holding (CAH). CAH is the owner of the territories surrounding the airport and is tasked on behalf of the government of Curaçao to develop these areas. The areas CAH oversees begin near Hato Caves and stretch all the way past Roi Rincon and the Freezone area up until the coastline.
In honor of the abundance the water source has contributed throughout the centuries, CAH invested in the development of a Mural at the entrance of the Park. The Mural was painted by the local artist Francis Sling, who was inspired by the bible passage of Psalm 1:3 which symbolizes the flowing water of Roi Rincon. The statement of the Psalm is written like a puzzle which is symbolic of the path which we each walk in life. Francis Sling was handpicked, as his art resonates with both the local and the tourist. His paintings are all around the island, and by adding the Mural to the Park, CAH seeks to create another touchpoint which can be linked with other Murals in Punda and all over the island. The Park has also received a new door, and there are currently efforts underway to increase the security around the park to safeguard the natural state of the park.
A mini documentary has been created about the Mural to create awareness within the community of this national treasure. The mini documentary consists of 2 parts, which can be seen on the Facebook page of CAH. CAH seeks to ensure that our locals and tourists can enjoy the riches of the park and has created the Mural as an homage to the abundance that its natural resource offers.
The upgrading of the National Park is part of the Area Development Master Plan (Plan) of CAH, which focuses on developing the area in a sustainable and integral manner. The Plan outlines development ideas for the 400 hectares area’s which ranges from conservation territories to industry terrains. The Plan embodies a holistic approach, focusing on maintaining the integrity of the areas while also ensuring the development of functions that contribute to the airport and the economic development of the island.
CAH has become a pro-active developer of these areas since changing its strategy in 2018 and is currently in the process of developing several projects on its terrains in line with the Plan. The Mural at Roi Rincon launches the Plan and sets the tone for the developments around CAH’s territories all the while contributing to eco-tourism of the island.
Roi Rincon is open every day of the week from 7AM-7PM. Entrance is free to the public.
