Curaçao is a vibrant tapestry of faiths, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and history of openness. Approximately 72.8% of the population identifies as Roman Catholic, making it the predominant religion. Protestant denominations, including Adventist (9%), Evangelical (8.9%), Pentecostal (7.6%), and other Protestant groups (3.2%), collectively comprise a significant portion of the religious landscape. Smaller yet historically significant communities include Jews, Hindus, and Muslims, each contributing to the island's diverse spiritual fabric.
The island is home to several notable places of worship that underscore its religious diversity. The Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral in Willemstad serves as the main cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Willemstad. The Fort Church, dating back to 1769, is a prominent Protestant church located within Fort Amsterdam. The Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, established in 1732, is the oldest surviving synagogue in the Americas and remains active today.
The Omar bin Al-Khattab Mosque in Otrobanda, completed in 1966, serves the Muslim community, many of whom are of Lebanese descent. Additionally, the Hindu community in Curaçao is centered around a temple located in the Zuurzak gated community, managed by the Indian Cultural Association of Curaçao, which serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the island's Hindu population.
Curaçao's religious plurality is a testament to its history as a crossroads of cultures. The island's population includes descendants of African slaves, European colonists, and immigrants from Asia and the Middle East. This mosaic has fostered a culture of tolerance and mutual respect, where diverse religious practices coexist harmoniously. The island's commitment to religious freedom continues to be a cornerstone of its national identity.
