What is the true treasure of Curaçao, with a population of just 150,000, which has become a powerhouse? It qualified for the FIFA World Cup

Curaçao, a tiny island nation, has made history. It is the smallest country to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026. With a population of just 156,000, this southern Caribbean island is a 444-square-kilometer island. 

Spread across 444 square kilometers, Curaçao's official language is Papiamento, a unique blend of Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch. Interestingly, the language also has a mix of English and French. However, people here also speak Dutch, English, and Spanish.

Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its colorful buildings reflect Dutch colonial architecture and vibrant culture.

Treasure of curacao

Tourists don't flock to Curaçao for no reason. There are many reasons for this. Curaçao's beaches are considered some of the clearest in the Caribbean. It's considered a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving, with over 70 diving sites. 

It's considered extremely rich in marine life. Turtles, corals, and tropical fish are easily visible here. This is why its natural beauty is considered a treasure trove, driving the country's economy.

Curaçao Interesting Facts

As a small island nation, Curaçao has limited economic resources. Revenue from oil refineries, tourism, and financial services are the mainstays of its economy. 

The large number of tourists who visit the country contribute to its economic growth. Its beautiful beaches and cultural heritage contribute to the growth of tourism.

How did the country emerge from slavery and become independent?

Curaçao's temperature remains 27-30°C year-round. Another notable feature of this island nation is its location outside the tropical cyclone belt, meaning it's less prone to hurricanes. 

It's claimed that the Arawak and Caquetio tribes, who migrated from Venezuela, lived here. Their occupations included fishing and farming. In 1499, Spanish explorers arrived, and the island came under Spanish control. The Spanish enslaved the people and sent them to other islands. Spain hoped to find gold, silver, and other minerals here, but that didn't happen.

Curaçao Beaches

In 1634, the Dutch West India Company conquered it from Spain, and it became a major trading center and slave trading port. It was during this period that Willemstad, now the country's capital, began to develop. 

Due to the arrival of people from different countries, it boasts a blend of cultures. Its architecture, administration, and education reflect Dutch influences, its music, cuisine, and language African influences, and its trade and cuisine Latin American influences. For a long time, the country was part of the Netherlands Antilles. Following its dissolution, it gained autonomous status in 2010.