African culture beats like the rhythm of a proud and festive heart throughout the island of Curaçao. Although the island is a mix of nationalities, African descendents make up the majority. Rising up through the oppression of the slave trade, the Afro-Curaçaoan people have established rich cultural traditions that have been embraced by both native and visitor alike.

African influence can be seen in the language of Papiamentu, a language once used to bridge the gap between the slaves and owners, but now the keystone of Curaçao communication. There is also Tambú, the “Curaçao Blues,” which the African descendents used to express their outrage and sorrow at slavery through song, music and dance.

There are other areas as well, such as food, religion and spirituality. These African traditions, introduced in the late 1600s, continue to influence Curaçao to this day.