Saint-Jean-du-Maroni Camp

The Camp de la Relégation in Saint-Jean-du-Maroni was a central component of the infamous French penal colony system in French Guiana. It was established in 1887 specifically to house recidivists (relegated), meaning criminals who had been convicted multiple times for minor offenses. Unlike the high-profile convicts on Devil's Island, the relegated were meant to be resocialized here through agricultural work and railway construction, though they often remained trapped in the colony for life. The ruins of the camp, including the dormitories, the chapel, and administrative buildings, bear witness to a dark chapter in French judicial history. Living conditions were characterized by disease, malnutrition, and hard physical labor. Today, the site is an important historical memorial illustrating the cruelty of the deportation system. Many of the buildings are overgrown by the jungle, giving the place an oppressive yet educational atmosphere. It serves as a place of remembrance for the thousands of men sent here who often never returned to their homeland.

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

Saint-Joseph Church of Iracoubo

A colorful and elaborately decorated wooden church in Iracoubo, painted entirely on the inside by a former convict.

Petit-Saut Dam

A massive hydroelectric dam on the Sinnamary River that supplies a significant portion of electricity for French Guiana.

Nature

Maroni River

The Maroni is the longest river in French Guiana, forming the border with Suriname.

🗺️

Lake Petit-Saut

Lake Petit-Saut is a large reservoir that provides hydroelectric power for French Guiana.

More places

Cimetière des Relégués

A somber cemetery in Saint-Jean-du-Maroni where many exiled prisoners were buried.

Bagne de Saint-Jean-du-Maroni

Also known as Camp de la Relégation, it was a penal colony for repeat offenders.

Toucan Rum Distillery

A local agricultural business in Saint-Laurent that grows sugarcane and traditionally processes it into quality rum.

Saint-Laurent Timber Industry

Several large sawmills in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni process tropical hardwoods from the surrounding forests.

Église de Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

A prominent church in the border city, built in the early 20th century by convicts.

Camp de la Transportation

The main penal colony facility where prisoners arrived in French Guiana before being distributed.

Saint-Laurent River Port

An important river port on the Maroni, facilitating border trade with Suriname and access to the interior.

🗺️

Amana Nature Reserve

A vast coastal reserve encompassing wetlands and beaches, serving as an important nesting ground for birds.