Since its construction in 1635, Fort Amsterdam has defended the island against many invading armies, but these days it serves the community of Curacao by housing its governmental offices. Although it's an exciting piece of local heritage and a potential tourist attraction, for some inexplicable reason it's very poorly promoted. Most of the brightly painted yellow buildings can only be admired from the outside but you can visit the inner courtyard where two historic cannon serve as a reminder of its military past. The charming little church is also a must-see with its stained glass windows, lovely organ and its bizarre clock on the ceiling. Embedded in one of Fort Amsterdam's walls is a cannonball fired by Captain Bligh's troops. Most of the interior is now a luxury hotel and an outdoor shopping mall.