Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni: A History of French Guiana
Located in the heart of French Guiana, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is a town that has a long and fascinating history. It is the largest town in the Maroni District and one of the most important cities in the country. Founded in 1676, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni has been a major port and trading post for centuries. It has played an important role in the history of French Guiana, from its early days as a colonial outpost to its modern-day status as an important commercial and cultural hub.
The town of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni was founded by French settlers in 1676. The original settlement was known as "Fort Maroni," and its purpose was to protect the French colonial interests in the area. The fort was built on a hill overlooking the Maroni River, and it was surrounded by a large wall designed to protect it from attack. In 1712, the settlement was renamed "Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni" in honor of the French explorer Louis de Saint-Laurent, who had explored the area in the 1600s.
Throughout the 18th century, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni was a major port for trading between the French and the Dutch. The town was also an important hub for the slave trade, and it was a major center for the production of sugar, coffee, and other commodities. In the 19th century, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni became an important center for the French colonial administration, and it was the site of the first French prison in French Guiana.
In the early 20th century, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni was the site of a major penal colony. The colony was established in 1854, and it was used to house political prisoners, criminals, and those accused of treason. The prison was known as the "Devil's Island," and it was notorious for its harsh conditions and inhumane treatment of its prisoners. The prison was eventually closed in 1938, and the prisoners were relocated to other parts of French Guiana.
Today, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is an important commercial and cultural center. The city is home to a large number of businesses, including banks, supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels. It is also a popular tourist destination, with its historic buildings, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is also home to a large number of cultural events, such as the annual Festival de la Mer, which celebrates the region's rich maritime heritage.
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is a city with a long and fascinating history. It is a place that has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but it has always remained an important part of French Guiana. From its early days as a colonial outpost to its modern-day status as a commercial and cultural hub, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni has played an important role in the history of French Guiana.