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Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral
Paramaribo
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, located in the heart of Paramaribo, Suriname, is a remarkable wooden Roman Catholic cathedral and a significant religious landmark. Originally, the Catholic congregation used a converted Dutch Jewish theatre from 1809, but as the community grew, a new cathedral was commissioned. Designed by Frans Harmes, construction began in 1883 and the cathedral was consecrated in 1885, with towers completed in 1901. The cathedral's interior is crafted from unpainted Surinamese cedar, offering a unique warm ambiance. It is the largest wooden structure in the Western Hemisphere, measuring 59.1 meters long and 44 meters tall at its tower. The cathedral accommodates about 900 people and was initially built for freedmen and contract laborers. It houses three bells named Alfhonsus, Rosa, and John, weighing between 222 and 827 kilograms. The cathedral also contains a German pipe organ originally with 1,550 pipes, which has undergone restoration. The burial site of Dutch-Surinamese priest Peter Donders, known for his missionary work with lepers, is within the cathedral. After extensive restorations, including a major one completed in 2010 with EU support, the cathedral was designated a minor basilica by Pope Francis in 2014, emphasizing its religious and cultural importance.
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Astuce: Visit the cathedral during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the historical and architectural details. The cathedral is accessible year-round, but the dry season offers more comfortable weather. Discounts may be available for groups or students; inquire locally. Photography is allowed but respect the solemn environment during services.
Faits intéressants
- •It is the largest wooden structure in the Western Hemisphere.
- •The cathedral was initially built to serve freedmen and contract laborers.
- •It contains three bells named Alfhonsus, Rosa, and John, weighing from 222 kg to 827 kg.
- •The pipe organ was built in Germany and originally had 1,550 pipes, many of which were stolen but later restored.
- •Dutch-Surinamese priest Peter Donders, known for his work with lepers, is buried inside the cathedral.
Histoire
The Catholic congregation in Paramaribo initially used a converted Dutch Jewish theatre from 1809 starting in 1826.
In 1858, it was designated a cathedral with the establishment of a diocese.
Due to growth, a new cathedral was designed by Frans Harmes, with construction commencing in 1883 on the theatre site.
The cathedral was consecrated in 1885, though its towers were only completed in 1901.
A poorly executed restoration in 1977 led to structural issues, but a major renovation supported by the European Union between 2007 and 2010 restored the cathedral.
It was declared a minor basilica in 2014 by Pope Francis, marking its ecclesiastical significance.
Guide du lieu
Main Hall1885
The cathedral’s vast main hall is constructed entirely from unpainted Surinamese cedar, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for worshippers and visitors alike. It can accommodate approximately 900 people.
Towers and Bells1901
The twin towers, completed in 1901, house three bells named Alfhonsus, Rosa, and John, weighing 222 kg, 413 kg, and 827 kg respectively. These bells mark important liturgical events and are key features of the cathedral’s silhouette.
Pipe Organ
A German-made pipe organ, originally containing 1,550 pipes, which suffered theft over the years but has been restored to regain much of its former grandeur and value.
Tomb of Peter Donders
The burial place of Dutch-Surinamese priest Peter Donders, renowned for his missionary work with lepers in Batavia, is located within the cathedral, adding spiritual and historical significance.
Contact
Téléphone: 472-521