Fort Zeelandia
Paramaribo
Fort Zeelandia, located in Paramaribo, Suriname, is a historic fortress originally built by the French in 1640 as a wooden fort. It was later reinforced by the English in 1651 and named Fort Willoughby. In 1667, the Dutch captured the fort during a brief battle and renamed it Fort Zeelandia, establishing Dutch colonial control over Suriname. Over time, the fort lost its military importance and was even considered for demolition in the 18th century. After Suriname gained independence in 1975, Fort Zeelandia became infamous during the 1980s military regime as the site of the December murders and political imprisonment. Today, it houses the Surinamese Museum, which features extensive ethnographic collections including archaeology, visual arts, colonial furniture, textiles, and historical photographs. The former commander's house within the fort now hosts the Nola Hatterman Art Academy, contributing to the cultural significance of the site.
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Tip: Visitors should consider visiting during daylight hours when the Surinamese Museum is open. Purchasing tickets in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons. The site offers insights into Suriname's colonial history and cultural heritage, so guided tours can enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Photography is generally allowed but check for any restrictions inside the museum.
Interesting facts
- •The fort was originally built by the French in 1640 as a wooden structure.
- •The Dutch captured the fort in 1667 after a three-hour battle and renamed it Fort Zeelandia.
- •Fort Zeelandia was the site of the December murders in 1982 under the military government.
- •The Surinamese Museum inside the fort holds a large collection of ethnographic artifacts, including colonial furniture and historical photographs.
- •The Nola Hatterman Art Academy is located in the former commander's house within the fort.
History
The site of Fort Zeelandia was first fortified by the French in 1640 with a wooden structure.
The English took control in 1651, reinforcing the fort and naming it Fort Willoughby.
In 1667, Dutch Admiral Abraham Crijnssen captured the fort in a short battle, renaming it Fort Zeelandia and establishing Dutch colonial rule.
The fort gradually lost military importance and was considered for demolition in 1772.
After Suriname's independence in 1975, the fort was used by the military government in the 1980s for political imprisonment and the December murders.
Place Guide
Surinamese Museum
Located within Fort Zeelandia, the museum houses extensive collections of ethnography, archaeology, visual arts, colonial furniture, textiles, and historical photographs, offering visitors a comprehensive view of Suriname's cultural heritage.
Nola Hatterman Art Academy
Situated in the former commander's house, this art academy is dedicated to nurturing local artistic talent and preserving Surinamese art traditions.
Contact
Phone: 425-871
