The beautiful hallmark of Willemstad is Dutch architecture in a kaleidoscope of colors like these along Handelskade. This charming characteristic dates back to 1816 when Governor Albert Kikkert blamed his migraine headaches on the sun reflecting off the white buildings. He issued a degree demanding everything be painted any color but white. Within three years the town became a rainbow. After he died in 1819, it was learned Kikkert owned a majority share of the only local paint company.
