Population: 152,379
Motto: No official motto
Curacao is home to “The Swinging Old Lady,” the longest pontoon bridge in the world at almost 558 feet. Built in 1888, the Swinging Old Lady is the nickname for the Queen Emma Bridge which floats on 16 pontoon boats and a propeller on each end for opening and closing the bridge.
Curacao is also home to the oldest Jewish congregation site in North America, dating back to 1651.[above] The reason for the sand floors? In order to practice their faith, they established secret worship rooms in the attic of some of their homes, putting sand on the floor to deaden the sounds of their prayers should anyone hear them and report them to the Inquisitor.
The official national anthem is “Himmo di Korsou (Anthem of Curacao)”. The anthem has four couplets of which only the first and last are typically sung; all four are to be sung only for important government proceedings.
Let’s raise our voice and sing
the grandeur of Curaçao;
Curaçao, small island,
a boulder in the sea!Curaçao, we love you
above all nations.
Your glory we sing
with all our hearts.Our people have their struggle
but we always have our faith
to accomplish always
victory through labour!Let us do our part
for the island’s prosperity.
Let us unite forces
so we can triumph.(To) Our fatherland we demonstrate
honour and loyalty,
as to the flag
the union of our nation.Our lives would be little
to give for our country,
fighting united for liberty,
love and understanding.And when we are far from home
we all recall
Curaçao, its sun and beaches
the pride of us all.Let us praise our Creator
Listen to the national anthem.
always and forever,
for He has made us worthy
to be born of Curaçao!