(Oranjestad)—Recently, Prime Minister Mike Eman officially placed the protected monument seal on Emanuel Chapel on Grote Bergweg in San Nicolas. With this, the chapel has officially become part of Aruba’s protected historical heritage.
Emanuel Chapel was built during the period when Father Bernardinus van Baars served as pastor of San Nicolas. Architect Virgilio Kock designed the building in the shape of an inverted “V,” with all walls, the ceiling, and the pews directed toward the altar and the central cross. During the ceremony, tribute was paid to architect Virgilio Kock, who designed Emanuel Chapel and gave the building its distinctive shape and identity.
His unique design contributed to the historical and architectural value that is now officially recognized.
The construction of the chapel was made possible thanks to the generosity of the parishioners of San Nicolas, funds raised through the Maria League and other parish organizations, together with a financial donation from LAGO. Construction began in September 1965 and the building was completed and consecrated on March 25, 1966, by Monsignor Holterman, Bishop of Willemstad.
Over the decades, Emanuel Chapel has served as a gathering place for faith and community. Parishioners from the neighborhood regularly came together for Mass and religious celebrations, especially during Christmas and Easter. Over time, the building suffered damage caused by salt air, wind, rain, and other natural factors.
The windows, tiles, and various other parts of the chapel gradually deteriorated. Despite several minor repairs in recent years, efforts were mainly focused on other maintenance projects such as St. Therese Mass, the Teresita Center, and the parish rectory building.
In 2003, Fathers Tony Peralta and Toti Fuentebella, together with the Parish Pastoral Council, decided to make Emanuel Chapel a priority in renovation efforts. With support from the “A Rose for St. Therese” program and various fundraising campaigns, sufficient funds were raised to replace the floor, altar, roof, ceiling, windows, lighting system, and to renovate the interior of the building.
The San Nicolas Business Association also provided support to improve the exterior of the chapel.
After more than forty years of service to the community, Emanuel Chapel continues to stand as a symbol of faith and unity for generations within the San Nicolas community. With its official designation as a protected monument, Aruba is ensuring that the history and unique value of the building will be preserved for future generations.
