Known locally as Par'bo, Paramaribo serves as the vibrant capital of Suriname. It lies along a snaking stretch of the Suriname River and centres around a UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic core that is clustered with ornate Dutch colonial buildings.
Things to do in Paramaribo
One of Paramaribo’s most impressive architectural landmarks is the Presidential Palace, which was constructed in 1730 and expanded in 1911 with a portico and terrace. It’s backed by the Garden of Palms, which features towering royal palms, a children’s playground and a troop of capuchin monkeys. The Presidential Palace watches over Independence Square where you’ll find the Court of Justice and the National Assembly of Suriname.
Overlooking a bend in the Suriname River is Fort Zeelandia, which showcases regional history exhibits as part of the Surinaams Museum. Originally built by the French in 1640, it was reinforced by the British and taken by the Dutch in 1667. Browse the archaeological findings and ethnographic artefacts on display, then explore the Nola Hatterman Art Academy. Named after the Dutch painter, it occupies a former commander’s house and specialises in Surinamese art.
Dating from the 1880s is the wooden-built Cathedral of Saint Peter and Paul, which was designated as a minor basilica by Pope Francis in 2014. At 44 metres in height, it stands as one of the largest wooden church buildings in the Western Hemisphere and can accommodate up to 900 worshippers. In addition to hosting religious services, the cathedral regularly presents musical recitals.
Getting around Paramaribo
Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport is just over an hour’s drive from Paramaribo and has flights to destinations across the Caribbean, the United States and Europe. Flights to Georgetown, Guyana are available from Zorg en Hoop Airport. Buses travel throughout Paramaribo and connect most of its attractions.