Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur de Cayenne

The Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur in Cayenne is the premier Roman Catholic landmark in French Guiana and the seat of the Diocese of Cayenne. Construction of the current edifice commenced in 1825 under the supervision of Father Nicolas Guiller, replacing an earlier 18th-century structure that had fallen into disrepair. Although the primary structure was completed in 1833, it was not formally consecrated as a cathedral until November 9, 1933. The architectural design adheres to neoclassical principles, featuring a symmetrical facade that anchors the historic center near the Place de l'Esplanade. Notably, the prominent bell tower was added much later, between 1952 and 1954, significantly altering the city's skyline. Inside, the cathedral houses an ornate high altar crafted from Carrara marble and animated stained-glass windows depicting the region's religious history. Designated as a Monument Historique on October 29, 1992, the building serves as a vital center for both religious practice and cultural heritage in the capital city of Cayenne.

Nearby cities

Cayenne

In Cayenne, the largest administrative center and capital of the region, known for its vibrant Creole culture and historic colonial archi…

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

A historic town along the Maroni River, known for its former penal colony and vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.

Awala-Yalimapo

An indigenous coastal community, world-famous as a nesting site for the massive leatherback sea turtles.

History & landmarks

Prefecture of French Guiana

The official seat of the prefect and an outstanding example of French colonial administration in the Caribbean and South America.

Victor Schœlcher Statue

A significant monument to Victor Schœlcher, who played a crucial role in abolishing slavery in the French colonies.

Saint-Sauveur Cathedral

The main church of Cayenne, built in colonial style, is a notable historical monument in the center of the capital.

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Cayenne City Hall

The beautiful administrative building of the city of Cayenne, designed in a classical colonial style with striking yellow facades.

Thérèse and Léon Blum House

A historic building in Cayenne connected with important figures of French history.

Félix Éboué House

The historical birthplace of famous politician Félix Éboué, which today is a small museum about Guiana's history.

Alexandre-Franconie Museum

The main museum in Cayenne showcasing the history, culture, and natural history of French Guiana within a traditional Creole house.

Cayenne Central Market

The bustling central market of Cayenne, housed in an iconic steel structure and famous for its local spices.

More places

Musée Départemental Alexandre-Franconie

A museum showcasing the natural history, archaeology, and ethnology of French Guiana.

Ancienne Mairie de Cayenne

The old city hall of Cayenne, showcasing classical colonial administration architecture.

Monument aux Morts de Cayenne

A memorial monument dedicated to the soldiers from French Guiana who fell in the World Wars.

Place des Palmistes

The main square in Cayenne, surrounded by historic colonial buildings and towering palm trees.

Cayenne Gold Refinery

Specialized facilities in the capital where gold extracted from legal mines in the hinterland is melted and prepared for export.

Fort Cépérou

Historic 17th-century fort ruins overlooking the city of Cayenne.

Maison de Félix Éboué

The historic birthplace of Félix Éboué, a prominent French Guianese colonial administrator.

Poudrière de Cayenne

A 19th-century gunpowder magazine used by the French military to store explosives.