Page 16 - AHATA

Tuesday 8 July 2025 locAl
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Aruba’s Bocas: home to the rarest fossil reefs on the planet!

These findings can certainly
put things into perspective. This research is also im-
The ground on which we portant for the future of
have walked many times coral reefs on the island.
in the northern part of the By studying rising sea lev-
island hold such rich history, els and climate impact on
history that dates back to a these coral reefs, we are
time that most of us cannot able to take concrete ac-
even imagine. tion in protecting and pre-
As the scientists themselves serving our coral reefs. So, if
have pointed out, these you are ever visiting one of
fossilized reefs on the wind- the bocas or driving along
ward side are truly an in- the northern part of the is-
credible and rare remnant land, please be conscious
of geological history, as to help protect our natural
they provide a clear view historical remnant. Oh, and
of how these reefs have wear (coral-friendly) sun-
formed. screen! q
(Oranjestad) — If you’ve faculty at the University of like hurricanes and tsuna-
been to the northern coast Bremen, Prof. dr. Alessio mis.
of Aruba already, you’ve Rovere from the Ca' Fosc-
probably noticed how the ari University of Venice and Through underwater and
ground differs entirely from Prof. dr. Gianfranco Scic- land surveillance, and 3D
the sandy beaches on the chitano, from the University models of the reefs, they
southern part of the island. of Bari Aldo Moro, present- were able to narrow down
These hard surfaces, with ed their research on these when these formations
sharp bumps and holes fossilized coral reefs at the started to take place. They
are actually fossilized coral University of Aruba. Their were also able to track the
reefs, of which its growth focus for their research in- fluctuation of sea levels
and changes can be cluded studying the health during the past hundred or
traced back to the last gla- and formation patterns of even thousands of years,
cial period. these coral reefs, and to and the effects that this
investigate how these reefs fluctuation has had on the
On May 30 2023, geosci- have responded and can coral reefs of the windward
entists, Dr. Patrick Boyden respond to fluctuating sea side of Aruba.
from the Marum research levels or extreme weather,

A guide for the perfect picture

Where to find the most Instagrammable places in Oranjestad

(Oranjestad)—Imagine, you’re taking a stroll in Speaking of giant signs that read “Aruba” (be-
the city center, and you want to take the most cause there can never be too many), there is
picture-perfect photo to show your friends and another sign you can find along the Linear Park,
family back home and online. It seems like the in front of Talk of the Town Hotel. It may be a
perfect spot can be hard to find, but Oranjestad long walk from the harbor to get there, but
is full of great spots for a quick snapshot! Here while you’re at it, check out these other spots
are the most Instagrammable places in Oran- along the way!
jestad.
The sitting bull
“I LOVE ARUBA” Yes, you read that right; right in the heart of the
Right on Paardenbaai Plaza, near the harbor city center, in front of the Crystal Casino in the
entrance, you will spot a giant sign that reads Renaissance Mall, there is a black bull sitting on
“I LOVE ARUBA”. A great first stop for a quick a bench, waiting for you to take a picture with
shot with the family, this spot is among the few it. Ok, so it’s not a real bull, but “I took a picture
that has become a favorite among tourists, es- with a sitting bull” sounds like a great conversa-
pecially those that are visiting Aruba through a tion opener.
cruise vacation.
See if you can also spot the cow on the roof!

Wooden Swing on Plaza Daniel Leo
While you’re in front of the Renaissance Mall, Renaissance Dock
check out the wooden swing on the other side Last but certainly not least, the Renaissance
of the mall on Plaza Daniel Leo. Another favor- Dock is the perfect spot to take a beautiful pic-
ite among visitors wanting a cute snapshot for ture, especially at sunset. The dock is located
Instagram. Just pass through the Renaissance behind the Renaissance Market Place, and runs
Mall and find this gem in front of the back en- from the Renaissance Marina up to Renaissance
trance! Beach and Wilhelmina Park. This spot offers a
gorgeous view of the ocean and sunset, ac-
Since you’ve made it this far, one question: How companied by the soft waves crashing on the
many blue horses have you spotted already?
shoreline. You may even spot some iguanas!q