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Presidential Palace

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Historical site
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Presidential Palace (Suriname)

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The Presidential Palace of Suriname, also known as the Gouvernementsgebouw, is one of the most prominent examples of Dutch colonial architecture in the Caribbean. Located on Independence Square (Onafhankelijkheidsplein) in Paramaribo, it was originally built in 1730 as a single-story stone structure. Over time, it underwent several expansions, with the distinctive white wooden upper floor being added in 1911. The building served as the seat of the Dutch Governor until 1975 and is currently the official residence of the President of Suriname. Its architecture features an ornate decorative pediment and extensive galleries designed for tropical ventilation. Behind the palace lies the famous Palmentuin (Palm Garden), once a private royal garden and now a public park. As part of Paramaribo’s historic inner city, the palace is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of national sovereignty.

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
The Presidential Palace is the official seat of the President and is generally not open to the public. The exterior and the front garden can be viewed from the street.
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Typical hours
As the building is not open to the public, there are no visiting hours. Viewing from outside is possible at any time during the day.
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Photography
Photography of the palace from the street is allowed. However, security personnel may restrict photography from certain angles.
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Time needed
A brief stop to view the facade takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you also visit the nearby Independence Square, allow 30 minutes total.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the opposite Independence Square and the historic downtown. The nearby St. Peter and Paul Cathedral is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The palace is located in central Paramaribo on Independence Street. It is easily reached on foot, by taxi, or by bicycle.
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Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning for the best photo light and to avoid crowds. Respect security zones and stay on the sidewalk.

Geography

Coordinates
5.82700, -55.15200

Facts

  • The original structure dates back to 1730
  • Official presidential residence since 1975
  • The wooden upper floor was added in 1911
  • Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2002
  • Located on Independence Square
  • Adjacent to the historic Palm Garden

Explore nearby

Notable places around

PalmentuinPalmentuin<1 km · EExplore →
DP World ParamariboDP World Paramaribo2 km · SWExplore →
GeyersvlijtGeyersvlijt3 km · NEExplore →
Surinaamse BrewerySurinaamse Brewery3 km · SExplore →
Fernandes Bottling CompanyFernandes Bottling Company4 km · SExplore →
Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut RefineryStaatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery4 km · WExplore →
Peperpot PlantationPeperpot Plantation4 km · NWExplore →
Clevia PlantationClevia Plantation5 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Presidential Palace (1)

Clock Tower📍 landmark

The iconic clock tower of the Ministry of Finance building, a prime example of brick colonial architecture.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Presidential Palace?
It is the official seat of the President of Suriname.
Can one visit the palace?
The interior is usually not open to the public, but the architecture from the outside is worth seeing.
Is photography allowed in front of the building?
Photos are allowed from the outside, but pay attention to security instructions.
Where is the palace located?
It is located directly on Independence Square in Paramaribo.
How is the palace architecturally classified?
It is an outstanding example of Suriname's colonial wooden architecture style.
Presidential Palace: where is it located?
Presidential Palace is located in Suriname.
Presidential Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Presidential Palace: why is it worth visiting?
The Presidential Palace of Suriname, also known as the Gouvernementsgebouw, is one of the most prominent examples of Dutch colonial architecture in the Caribbean.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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