New heritage maps reveal threats to Saba and Sint Eustatius landscapes
Residents of Saba and Sint Eustatius now have tools to protect their unique landscapes and cultural heritage from climate change, tourism, and urban development. The Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency’s new biographies and digital maps highlight what’s at stake for future generations.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Islands | Saba, Sint Eustatius |
| Project | Landscape biographies and digital maps |
| Threats | Tourism, housing, climate change, demographic shifts |
| Key Features (Saba) | Cloud forest, coral reef (Saba Bank), pristine nature |
| Key Features (Statia) | Historic trade hub, unique architecture, festivals, traditions |
| Launch Date | February 19, 2026 |
| Access | Biographies |
The Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE) safeguards and promotes the cultural heritage of the Netherlands, including its Caribbean territories. This project empowers local communities to preserve their landscapes and traditions amid growing external pressures.
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Landscape Biographies of Saba and Sint Eustatius Launched
Together with residents and experts, the Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE) has for the first time mapped the landscape and heritage of Saba and Sint Eustatius in two books (landscape biographies) and digitally available maps. On Thursday, February 19, the landscape and cultural heritage of Saba and Sint Eustatius were presented during the symposium at the symposium on the landscape and cultural heritage of Saba and Sint Eustatius.
Character of Islands Under Threat
The landscape biographies are necessary because the spatial challenges for these Dutch "special municipalities" are significant. Tourism, housing construction, demographic developments, and climate change pose a threat to the character of both islands. With this research, islanders can determine what they wish to preserve for future generations of Saban and Statian residents.
Symposium
The presentation of the biographies to Saba and Sint Eustatius, where they were handed over to the commissioners, took place via a live connection with both islands. At the Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency, the biographies were handed over to Barbera Wolfensberger (Director-General for Kingdom Relations at the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations). Arjan de Zeeuw, Director of Knowledge and Advice at the RCE, launched the digital maps.
A live connection was established between Sint Eustatius and Amersfoort, allowing both residents of the Caribbean Netherlands and those in European Netherlands to learn about the shared histories of Saba and Sint Eustatius.
Saba and Sint Eustatius
On Saba, "The Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean," people have continually adapted to changing circumstances. The nature is pristine, and the island is renowned for its cloud forest on the volcano and coral reef in the Saba Bank. Sint Eustatius, "The Historical Gem of the Caribbean," has a very different history. It was once the center of Caribbean trade, where goods from all directions were exchanged, but it was also an important port for the trade in enslaved people. Today, both islands have their own unique architecture, landscapes, festivals, and traditions.
Biographies and Maps
Curious about the biographies and maps? Consult them via: