Created 10-Feb-25
Modified 19-Feb-25
7 photos
Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, traces its origins to the 17th century when the Dutch established Fort Oranje in 1639 to protect the island from rival European powers. The settlement grew around the fort and was initially known as "Playa" before adopting the name Kralendijk, derived from the Dutch word koraal (coral), referencing the island’s coral reefs.
Throughout its history, Kralendijk played a role in salt production, a key industry on Bonaire since the colonial era. During World War II, the town became strategically important when Dutch and Allied forces established a military presence to defend against potential German attacks in the Caribbean.
In the late 20th century, Kralendijk evolved into a tourism hub, driven by Bonaire’s reputation as a premier diving and eco-tourism destination. Today, the town remains the cultural and economic heart of the island, blending Dutch colonial heritage with Caribbean influences.
We were amazed by Bonaire's crystal-clear water and extensive sea salt industry, which features brine condenser ponds, historic slave quarters, and white salt pyramids. If you look closely, you might notice the uniquely pink-colored brine ponds. This coloration is due to a microorganism known as halophilic bacteria. Indirectly, these same bacteria influence the flamingos' pink coloration by contributing to the microbial community that produces pigments in the flamingos' food sources. Be careful what you eat.
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Throughout its history, Kralendijk played a role in salt production, a key industry on Bonaire since the colonial era. During World War II, the town became strategically important when Dutch and Allied forces established a military presence to defend against potential German attacks in the Caribbean.
In the late 20th century, Kralendijk evolved into a tourism hub, driven by Bonaire’s reputation as a premier diving and eco-tourism destination. Today, the town remains the cultural and economic heart of the island, blending Dutch colonial heritage with Caribbean influences.
We were amazed by Bonaire's crystal-clear water and extensive sea salt industry, which features brine condenser ponds, historic slave quarters, and white salt pyramids. If you look closely, you might notice the uniquely pink-colored brine ponds. This coloration is due to a microorganism known as halophilic bacteria. Indirectly, these same bacteria influence the flamingos' pink coloration by contributing to the microbial community that produces pigments in the flamingos' food sources. Be careful what you eat.
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