section_path: Architecture/Forts
section_name: Forts
paragraph_text: Forts
  
  When the Dutch arrived in 1634, they built forts at key points around the island to protect themselves from foreign powers, privateers, and pirates. Six of the best-preserved forts can still be seen today:
  
  In 1957, the hotel Van der Valk Plaza Curaçao was built on top of the Waterfort.
  
  The Rif Fort is located opposite of the Waterfort, across the Otrobanda harbour entrance. It contains restaurants and shops, and in 2009, the Renaissance Curaçao Resort and Casino opened next to it.