ORANJESTAD (AAN): The organizations responsible for Aruba’s historical heritage, collectively known as Monumenten Zorg (Stichting Monumenten Fonds Aruba, Monumenten Bureau, and Monumenten Raad), recently celebrated a historic milestone: 30 years of continuous dedication to preserving and valuing Aruba’s monuments. The Directie Natuur en Milieu (DNM) extended warm congratulations to the entire team for their tireless efforts over three decades.
This milestone also marks a new chapter for the Stichting Monumenten Fonds Aruba, welcoming Petra Davies as the new director and wishing her success in leading the foundation’s mission. Special recognition was given to Anne Witsenburg for her long-standing leadership and devotion to Aruba’s culture and history.
A Unique Combination of Conservation and Sustainability:
DNM highlighted the significance of combining historical preservation with sustainability. Their office is located in one of Aruba’s most iconic and eco-friendly monuments: the Uncle Louis Store in San Nicolas. During restoration, green technologies and eco-efficient practices were deliberately integrated, making the office a living example of how cultural heritage conservation can align with modern, future-proof sustainability.
This collaboration sends a strong message: protecting historical heritage and caring for the environment can go hand in hand. Uncle Louis Store serves as tangible proof that historic structures can be preserved while implementing sustainable measures that reduce ecological impact. DNM believes this partnership can serve as a model for similar initiatives.
DNM congratulates Monumenten Zorg on their 30th anniversary, thanks Anne Witsenburg for her dedication, and wishes Petra Davies and her team every success. The lessons of history, culture, and nature will continue to strengthen Aruba for decades to come.
