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Poudrière de Cayenne
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Historical site
The Poudrière de Cayenne (Cayenne Powder Magazine) is a significant military landmark in the capital of French Guiana. Constructed in 1864 during the reign of Napoleon III, it was built to provide a secure and dry storage facility for the city's gunpowder supplies. Located in the Anse de l'Hôpital district, the building is notable for its robust defensive architecture. Its thick brick and stone walls, along with a massive vaulted roof, were engineered to withstand potential explosions and protect the ammunition from the corrosive effects of tropical humidity. The powder magazine was a vital component of Cayenne's coastal defense system, which included the nearby Fort Cépérou. Over time, as military technology advanced, the building fell out of use and was eventually recognized as a national historic monument. Today, the Poudrière has been meticulously restored and frequently serves as a venue for cultural exhibitions and community events, standing as a reminder of the strategic military importance of Cayenne in the 19th-century colonial era.
- Location: French Guiana
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (33 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 300 | 264 | 251 | 369 | 504 | 334 | 217 | 109 | 54 | 58 | 110 | 303 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The gunpowder magazine is a historic building that can be viewed from the outside. The interior is usually not open to the public as the structure is locked.
Typical hours
Since the building is not regularly open, there are no set hours for visiting. Viewing from outside is possible at any time as the area is public.
Photography
Photographing the exterior facade is allowed anytime. Close-ups of the old stone walls and surroundings are worthwhile.
Time needed
An exterior viewing takes about 10-15 minutes. If you also explore the surroundings, allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
The magazine is in Cayenne, near Place des Palmistes and the museum. Combine the visit with a walk through the historic district.
Getting there
The magazine is centrally located in Cayenne, easily reachable on foot or by taxi. The exact address is marked by local signs.
Insider tip
Read up on the history of the powder magazine beforehand - it played a key role in the colonial era. Combine the visit with a city tour for more context.
Geography
Facts
- The powder magazine was completed in 1864 to support the local garrison.
- It is situated at the Pointe de l'Anse, a strategic coastal location.
- Special ventilation slits were designed to combat the high tropical humidity.
- The structure was designated a French 'Monument Historique' in 1989.
- The vaulted masonry was a standard safety feature for ammunition storage.
- It currently hosts art shows and history exhibitions for the public.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Poudrière de Cayenne (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was the Poudrière built?
The powder magazine was built in 1864 and is one of the oldest military buildings in Cayenne.
What was this building used for?
It was used for the safe storage of gunpowder for the city's defense against attacks.
Where exactly is the Poudrière located?
It is located in the Quartier de l'Anse district in Cayenne, not far from the coast.
Can you visit the interior?
Access to the interior is often restricted, but the architecture can be admired from the outside.
What is special about its architecture?
It has thick stone walls and a vaulted roof designed to withstand explosions or limit their impact.
Poudrière de Cayenne: where is it located?
Poudrière de Cayenne is located in French Guiana.
Poudrière de Cayenne: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Poudrière de Cayenne: why is it worth visiting?
The Poudrière de Cayenne (Cayenne Powder Magazine) is a significant military landmark in the capital of French Guiana.
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A museum showcasing the natural history, archaeology, and ethnology of French Guiana.
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A memorial monument dedicated to the soldiers from French Guiana who fell in the World Wars.
Place des Palmistes
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