Saint Laurent du Maroni
Marowijne
Saint Laurent du Maroni, located on the Maroni River in north-west French Guiana, is the second most populous city in the region and serves as one of its three sub-prefectures. Founded in 1858 as a penal colony arrival point, the town was central to the infamous Camp de la Transportation where prisoners were brought for incarceration until the prison's closure in 1946. The town's strategic location opposite Suriname's Albina, accessible by ferry, helped prevent prisoner escapes by sea. Architecturally, the commune features the Hôtel de Ville, completed in 1907, symbolizing its administrative importance. Today, Saint Laurent du Maroni is culturally diverse, with communities including Maroons, Creoles, Amerindians, Haitians, and Brazilians. It is a hub for ecotourism, offering access to Amazonian rainforest excursions and the nearby Voltaire Falls. Despite urban growth and environmental challenges, the town remains vital for regional development and conservation efforts. Plans for a new high-security prison have been announced, reflecting its ongoing role in French Guiana's penal system legacy.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore Saint Laurent du Maroni during the dry season for optimal weather when undertaking ecotourism excursions upriver or to the Voltaire Falls. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to ensure access to jungle stays and river trips. Ferry connections to Albina in Suriname provide cross-border travel opportunities. While visiting, consider supporting local environmental initiatives and respecting the diverse cultural communities. Check for any updated information on the new prison project or local events before planning your visit.
Faits intéressants
- •Saint Laurent du Maroni was the main arrival point for prisoners sent to the French Guiana penal colony from 1858 to 1946.
- •The Hôtel de Ville, completed in 1907, served as the administrative center during the penal colony era.
- •The town lies opposite Albina in Suriname and is connected by ferry and pirogue, facilitating cross-border travel.
- •A previously unknown species of Caecilian was discovered in Saint Laurent du Maroni in 2009.
- •Between 1890 and 1897, a Decauville railway was built to connect Saint Laurent du Maroni with nearby penal camps and sawmills, but it was abandoned after the prison closure.
Histoire
Saint Laurent du Maroni was founded in 1858 by Auguste Baudin as the arrival point for prisoners sent to the penal colony known as Camp de la Transportation.
The town was originally near an Amerindian settlement named Kamalakuli.
It became the capital of a special prison commune in 1880, with the mayor also serving as the Director of the Penitentiary Administration.
The Hôtel de Ville was completed in 1907.
Efforts to close the prison began in the 1930s, culminating in its final closure in 1946.
In 1949, the town transitioned into a regular commune.
Recent developments include plans announced in 2025 to build a new high-security prison, continuing its historical association with penal institutions.
Guide du lieu
Hôtel de Ville1907
The town hall completed in 1907, serving as a symbol of Saint Laurent du Maroni's administrative and penal colony heritage.
Camp de la Transportation Site1858-1946
Historic site of the penal colony where prisoners arrived and were processed before incarceration. It represents the town's central role in French Guiana's penal history.
Maroni River Ferry Crossing
The ferry connects Saint Laurent du Maroni with Albina in Suriname, enabling cross-border transport and cultural exchange.
Ecotourism Departure Points
Starting points for jungle excursions upriver, including visits to creeks and the Amazon rainforest, with options for overnight stays in huts or tents.