10 Things to Do in La Maison des Esclaves, Cayenne, French Guiana



La Maison des Esclaves, which translates to “House of Slaves” in English, is a museum located in Cayenne, French Guiana. This museum was built in memory of the millions of slaves who were brought to the Caribbean islands and the South American mainland by the French during the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the slave trade and educating visitors about the horrors of slavery. Here are 10 things to do in La Maison des Esclaves:

1. Tour the Museum: La Maison des Esclaves features a number of interactive exhibits and displays that tell the story of the slave trade. Visitors can learn about the different stages of the slave trade, the conditions of life for slaves, and the impact of slavery on the Caribbean and South American regions.

2. Visit the Memorial Garden: The Memorial Garden is located in the back of the museum and is dedicated to the victims of the slave trade. It features a large stone sculpture of a slave and a plaque with the names of those who died during the journey.

3. View Artifacts: The museum houses a number of artifacts from the slave trade, including shackles, tools, and other items used by slaves.

4. Watch Documentaries: The museum has a number of documentaries that provide an in-depth look at the history of the slave trade.

5. Attend Lectures: The museum hosts a number of lectures and seminars about the history of slavery and its impact on the region.

6. Participate in Workshops: Visitors can participate in workshops that focus on the history of the slave trade and its impact on the region.

7. View Historical Photographs: The museum has a number of historical photographs that provide a glimpse into the lives of slaves.

8. Attend Events: The museum hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as film screenings, book readings, and lectures.

9. Browse the Gift Shop: The museum has a gift shop that sells books, souvenirs, and other items related to the history of the slave trade.

10. Take a Guided Tour: The museum offers guided tours of the museum and its exhibits. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who can provide insight into the history of the slave trade and its impact on the region.

Visiting La Maison des Esclaves is a great way to learn about the history of slavery and its impact on the Caribbean and South American regions. The museum offers a variety of activities and events that will help visitors gain a better understanding of the past.