In the early 20th century, the catholic church and education (schools for boys) on Aruba were in the hands of friars who came from Holland, from Tilburg, to be exact. The friars’ house, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, was built in 1914, right next to the boys’ primary school, the Dominicus School, and opened in 1915.

The friars of Tilburg returned home in 1937 and 13 Frères (Brothers) de la Salle took over. The friars’ house then got its name ‘Huize de la Salle’. The building features an intimate patio, around which heavy pillars support a gallery on the second floor, accessed by an impressive staircase.

On both floors there are small chambers used by the brothers then, still in use nowadays.

In 1946, the chapel was consecrated. It is still used as auditorium and for small scale musical events.

In 1952, the frères moved out to a new home, called ‘Maris Stella’ in Savaneta. Huize de la Salle was sold in 1987 to the University of Aruba, which opened in 1988.

The building next door, the original Dominicus School, with its Neoclassical facade, is part of the University complex as well. It says ‘Centro Educativo Cristian’ (Center for Religious Education’) on the facade.

The ‘De la Salle’ building was thoroughly renovated during 2024 and 2025.