WILLEMSTAD - On November 19, Marcel Dennert, Director of the Curaçao Monuments Foundation (Stichting Monumentenzorg Curaçao), received the prestigious Restoration Fund Compliment. Uğur Özcan, Director of the National Restoration Fund (Nationaal Restauratiefonds), presented the award during his official visit to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The honor recognizes Dennert’s tireless efforts in preserving and restoring monuments in Curaçao, particularly in the historic center of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Since returning to Curaçao in the late 1980s after completing his studies in Pittsburgh, Dennert has dedicated himself wholeheartedly to protecting the island’s monumental heritage. Together with his team, he has transformed the perception of monument care from an exclusive interest of the elite into a source of national pride and significant economic value for the country.
As the director of the Curaçao Monuments Foundation, Dennert has worked to acquire, restore, and manage Curaçao’s monumental and cultural properties to ensure they are preserved for future generations.
Recognition of Collaborative Efforts
The Restoration Fund expressed its deep appreciation for the long-standing and productive collaboration with Dennert and his team. The award highlights their shared commitment to the sustainable preservation of the unique heritage in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
“The World Heritage status of Willemstad is something every citizen can be proud of,” noted the Restoration Fund, emphasizing the economic and cultural value of Dennert’s contributions to Curaçao’s historic preservation efforts.