Matoury is a commune located in the French overseas region and department of French Guiana, in South America. It is located on the east bank of the Oyapock River, which forms the border between French Guiana and Brazil. Matoury is the second most populous commune in French Guiana, after Cayenne, the capital.
Matoury was originally inhabited by the Kalina, a group of Native Americans who were the original inhabitants of the area. The first Europeans to arrive in the area were the French, who founded the settlement of Matoury in 1620. The settlement was part of the French colonization of the New World, and the French settlers brought with them their language, culture, and religion.
The settlement of Matoury was originally a small fishing village, and the local economy was based primarily on fishing and farming. The French settlers introduced new crops to the area, such as sugar cane, coffee, and tobacco, which helped to diversify the local economy.
Matoury was also an important port for the French during the 18th and 19th centuries. The port served as a gateway to the Caribbean, and was an important stop for ships traveling between Europe and the Americas. The port was also used to transport slaves from Africa to the Caribbean.
In the 19th century, Matoury experienced a period of economic prosperity, as the port became an important trading center for the region. The port was also used as a base for French military operations in the area.
During the 20th century, Matoury experienced a period of decline, as the port became less important in the region. The port was closed in the 1950s, and the local economy shifted to agriculture and tourism.
Today, Matoury is a vibrant community, with a population of over 25,000 people. The commune is home to many cultural and historical sites, including the Matoury Historical Museum, which showcases the history of the commune. The commune is also home to a number of festivals and events, such as the Matoury International Festival, which celebrates the culture of the commune.
Matoury is an important part of French Guiana’s history, and its unique culture and history make it an interesting place to visit. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery, Matoury is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the history of French Guiana.