RIOHACHA, WILLEMSTAD – On December 18 and 19, Riohacha, Colombia, will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Casa Pinedo-Deluque, a historic building that symbolizes the strong trade and familial ties between Curaçao and La Guajira. The "Dutch Corner House," built in 1874, once stood as a testament to the commercial prosperity between Curaçao and the Colombian coastal town.
The building was originally home to Samuel Pinedo, a Curaçaoan trader born in 1833, who settled in Riohacha. The Pinedo family significantly contributed to the local economy through trade, ship sales, and credit services. For several decades, they also served as Dutch consular representatives in the city.
To preserve this heritage, Natasha Pinedo, a descendant of Samuel Pinedo, spearheaded restoration efforts when the building faced demolition in 2015. These efforts culminated in the upcoming anniversary event, aimed at restoring the architectural heritage and strengthening the historical connection between Curaçao and Riohacha.
The program on Wednesday, December 18, includes a presentation on genealogical research by Modianne Cathalina from the National Archives of Curaçao and a panel discussion on the familial ties between La Guajira and Curaçao. Additionally, a virtual exhibition featuring historical objects from Aruba and Curaçao will be displayed, co-organized by the Dutch Embassy in Bogotá.
On Thursday, December 19, the celebrations will continue with a folkloric city tour and an official protocol ceremony at Casa Pinedo-Deluque. Highlights include a performance of the waltz Morir Soñando, composed by Elías Pinedo Mendoza, a tribute to the Curaçaoan Ka’i Orgel foundation, and the presentation of the collection Tula – The True Colors of My Freedom.