Paramaribo is the capital, largest town, and main port of Suriname, one of the smallest countries in South America. About 80 percent of Suriname's total population lives in Paramaribo and the surrounding area. Paramaribo lies in the northern part of the country, about 9 miles (15 kilometers) from the Atlantic Ocean. Set along the Suriname River, the city is built on a reef that stands 16 feet (5 meters) above the river at low tide. Places of interestBecause of its history as a colony, Paramaribo has many French-, British-, and Dutch-style buildings. The 17th-century Fort Zeelandia, which was built by the French and improved by the British and Dutch, reflects these countries' influence. In the center of Paramaribo is Independence Square, which sits in front of the Presidential Palace. The Palmentuin is a park with tropical birds and palm trees. The town also has the Suriname Museum and a large library. Schools include the Suriname Agricultural Research Center, Anton de Kom University of Suriname, and Suriname College of Medicine. People and cultureThe population of Paramaribo is varied. It is mostly made up of East Indians, Creoles (people of French descent), blacks, South American Indians, Javanese, Chinese, and people of Dutch descent. Dutch is the official language. However, many people speak Sranang Tongo, the Surinamese language. Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam are the main religions. EconomySince World War II (1939–45) tourism has helped the town to grow. Paramaribo has paint, margarine, and cement factories and a brewery that makes beer from rice. A modern fishing industry is located in the city, and shrimp is exported to North America. Highways, a railroad, and an international airport serve the town. HistoryParamaribo began as a Native American village. A French settlement was established in the area in about 1640. In 1651 it was the site of an English colony. In 1667 Paramaribo was surrendered to the Dutch under the Treaty of Breda, which brought an end to a war between the English and the Dutch. This began a period of Dutch colonial rule that was interrupted only by brief periods of British control. Paramaribo became the capital of Suriname when the country gained independence in 1975. Population (1999 estimate), urban area, 233,000. |