10 Things to Do in Fort Zeelandia Museum Nieuw Amsterdam Suriname
Nestled in the heart of Suriname’s capital city, Paramaribo, Fort Zeelandia Museum Nieuw Amsterdam offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the country’s colonial past. The museum is located in the former Dutch fort of Nieuw Amsterdam, which was built in 1667 and served as the country’s first capital. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Suriname’s colonial history and its struggle for independence. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Fort Zeelandia Museum Nieuw Amsterdam.
1. Explore the Historic Fort: The fort itself is a great place to explore. It is the oldest Dutch fort in the Americas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds and its many structures, including the old barracks, the powder magazine, and the old Dutch church.
2. Learn about Suriname’s Colonial History: The museum contains a wealth of information about Suriname’s colonial history. Visitors can learn about the country’s struggle for independence from the Dutch and its transition to a republic. There are also exhibits about the various cultures that make up Suriname’s population, including the Maroons, the Javanese, and the Chinese.
3. View the Artifacts: The museum contains a variety of artifacts from Suriname’s colonial past. Visitors can view items such as old coins, weapons, and documents.
4. Take a Tour: The museum offers guided tours of the fort and its grounds. The tours are available in both English and Dutch.
5. Watch a Movie: The museum also hosts a variety of films about Suriname’s colonial history and its struggle for independence.
6. Attend a Lecture: The museum regularly hosts lectures and seminars about various topics related to Suriname’s history and culture.
7. Visit the Gift Shop: The museum’s gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs and books about Suriname’s history and culture.
8. Enjoy the Scenery: The museum is located in a beautiful part of Paramaribo and offers great views of the city.
9. Take a Boat Tour: The museum offers boat tours of the nearby Suriname River. The tours provide a great opportunity to learn about the area’s wildlife and natural environment.
10. Have a Picnic: The museum grounds are perfect for a picnic. There is a small café and a picnic area where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Fort Zeelandia Museum Nieuw Amsterdam is a great place to visit for anyone interested in learning about Suriname’s colonial history and its struggle for independence. With its variety of artifacts, films, and lectures, the museum offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the country’s past.