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Fort Zeelandia

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Historical site
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Fort Zeelandia (Suriname)

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Fort Zeelandia is a historic fortress located in Paramaribo, situated directly on the left bank of the Suriname River. Originally constructed in 1640 by French colonists as a wooden fort, the site was captured in 1651 by the English under Lord Willoughby and renamed Fort Willoughby. In 1667, the Dutch commander Abraham Crijnssen seized the fortress, giving it its current name, Fort Zeelandia, after the Dutch province of Zeeland. The pentagonal structure served for centuries as a strategic military outpost, a prison, and a warehouse for colonial trade goods. A dark chapter in its recent history occurred in December 1982, when 15 opponents of the military regime led by Desi Bouterse were executed within its walls. Today, the fort houses the Suriname Museum, which features extensive exhibits on the country's colonial history, archaeology, and diverse cultural heritage. The architecture exemplifies 17th-century Dutch fortification design and remains a cornerstone of Paramaribo's historic inner city, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272726272728282827
Rain mm142116111194286251190105535181165

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Fort Zeelandia is a well-preserved star-shaped fortress from the 17th century on the Suriname River. The fort houses a museum and is open to visitors for a fee.
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Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, with shorter hours on holidays. Mondays are usually closed; checking ahead is recommended.
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Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the courtyard and exhibition rooms. Flash may be restricted in certain areas; look for signs.
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Time needed
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a visit to the fort and museum. The exhibitions on colonial history and slavery are very informative.
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Combine with
The fort is located right on the Waterkant, a few minutes' walk from the Central Market. St. Peter and Paul Cathedral is also nearby.
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Getting there
The fort is located in central Paramaribo along the waterfront promenade. It is easily accessible on foot, by taxi, or by car; parking is available nearby.
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Insider tip
Visit the museum in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds. Take time for a walk along the bastions with views of the river.

Geography

Coordinates
5.82500, -55.15000

Facts

  • The first fortification was built by French settlers in 1640.
  • Abraham Crijnssen captured the fort for the Netherlands on February 25, 1667.
  • The fortress features a distinctive pentagonal star-shaped design.
  • During the 1980s, the fort served as the headquarters for the military council.
  • The Suriname Museum has been located within the fort since 1995.
  • The site is a key component of Paramaribo's UNESCO World Heritage inner city.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Jules Wijdenbosch BridgeJules Wijdenbosch Bridge2 km · SWExplore →
GeyersvlijtGeyersvlijt2 km · NEExplore →
Surinaamse BrewerySurinaamse Brewery3 km · SExplore →
Peperpot PlantationPeperpot Plantation4 km · NWExplore →
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut RefineryStaatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery4 km · WExplore →
Fernandes Bottling CompanyFernandes Bottling Company4 km · SExplore →
Clevia PlantationClevia Plantation4 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Fort Zeelandia (3)

Statue of Queen Wilhelmina🏺 historical

A bronze statue of the former Dutch Queen, standing on the riverbank near Fort Zeelandia.

Eco Resort🎡 recreation

A tropical resort known for its colonial-style buildings and serene garden setting by the river.

Noeroel Islam📍 landmark

A local mosque serving as a place of prayer and gathering for the Muslim community.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When can one visit Fort Zeelandia?
The fort is usually open to visitors Tuesday through Sunday.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, there is a moderate fee for foreign tourists.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1 to 2 hours to explore the site.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography of the exterior area is allowed.
Is the fort accessible?
Due to its age and historic structure, it is only partially accessible.
Fort Zeelandia: where is it located?
Fort Zeelandia is located in Suriname.
Fort Zeelandia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Statue of Queen Wilhelmina, Eco Resort, Noeroel Islam.
Fort Zeelandia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Fort Zeelandia: why is it worth visiting?
Fort Zeelandia is a historic fortress located in Paramaribo, situated directly on the left bank of the Suriname River.
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