WILLEMSTAD – The Government of Curaçao is considering renovating the historic chapel at the former Sint Elisabeth Hospital (SEHOS), even though the building remains the property of private investors and was not included in the XCG 13 million acquisition by the government and Curaçao Medical Center (CMC).
Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning Charles Cooper disclosed the government's intentions during a parliamentary question-and-answer session on Thursday, October 29.
SEHOS chapel
The chapel, one of the historically significant structures within the former hospital complex in Otrobanda, remained under the ownership of Otrabanda Village following the sale of a substantial portion of the property to the government and CMC.
According to Cooper, an agreement exists with the Diocese concerning the preservation of the chapel, which should retain as much of its original architectural character as possible.
The minister indicated that the government is willing to undertake the restoration and eventually make what he described as a gesture toward the Diocese.
However, he did not clarify whether that gesture could involve transferring ownership of the chapel or establishing another arrangement for its future use.
The announcement raises questions about the possible use of public funds to renovate a building that remains privately owned.
It is not yet clear who would ultimately finance the restoration, whether the government would recover any investment or what agreements would govern the chapel's ownership and operation after the work is completed.
Cooper also provided an update on the broader redevelopment of the former SEHOS complex.
According to the minister, a major cleanup operation has already begun, with the project currently in what he described as phase zero.
The next stage will involve renovation work, during which the government intends to preserve as much of the original architecture as possible.
Cooper indicated that the traditional Aurora Masses could potentially return to the chapel as early as December if progress permits. However, he did not make a firm commitment.
Beyond the chapel, the government has broader plans to transform the former hospital into an important component of Otrobanda's revitalization.
Cooper outlined proposals to introduce residential units, including housing for young professionals and elderly residents, alongside restaurants and other hospitality activities.
The government also intends to invest several million Caribbean guilders in improvements along Breedestraat in Otrobanda, including upgrades to the sewerage system and other public infrastructure.
According to the minister, the objective is to turn the former hospital complex into a catalyst for the wider redevelopment of Otrobanda while preserving its historical significance.
However, several important details remain unresolved, including the total redevelopment budget, financing arrangements and the division between public and commercial uses within the complex.
The chapel's future is particularly significant because it combines questions of historical preservation, religious heritage, private property rights and the possible expenditure of government funds.
Further clarification will be needed to establish how the government intends to restore the privately owned building and what benefits or rights the public would receive in return.