Facts for Kids

Paramaribo is the capital city of Suriname, a small country in South America. 🌍

It sits along the Suriname River and has a population of about 240,000 people. It’s a mix of different cultures, including Indigenous, African, Dutch, and Indian! The city is known for its historical buildings, like the wooden St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, which is the largest wooden building in the Western Hemisphere! 🏛

️ Fast facts: Paramaribo is both a lively city and a place where you can find tropical rainforests nearby!

The economy of Paramaribo mostly relies on trade and agriculture. 🌽

The city plays an important role in exporting goods like gold, rice, and shrimp! There are also businesses that focus on tourism and helping visitors experience the natural beauty around. Additionally, the government employs many residents with jobs in education and health care. While the city is not as rich as others, its vibrant economy continues to grow with help from local and international markets! 💰

Paramaribo was founded in 1603 by the Dutch. 🇳🇱 It was a trading post for the Dutch West India Company. In 1667, the British took control for a short time, but the Dutch got it back through the Treaty of Breda. The city became the capital of Suriname in 1954. During its history, Paramaribo has witnessed many changes, including the fight for independence from the Netherlands in 1975. This rich history has made the city unique, allowing us to learn about its diverse cultures and peoples. 🗺

️

Paramaribo has many schools offering education in various subjects. 📚

The main language of instruction is Dutch, but some schools teach in English and Sranan Tongo, too! Children usually start school at age 4 or 5. There are primary and secondary schools, and many students go on to universities in the city. One of the most important universities is the Anton de Kom University of Suriname. Education is highly valued, and kids work hard to learn and achieve their dreams! 🎓

Paramaribo is located in the northern part of Suriname, near the Atlantic Ocean. 🌊

The city has a warm tropical climate, with temperatures usually between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (90°F). It experiences lots of rain, especially during the ‘rainy season’ from December to January. Paramaribo is built along the banks of the Suriname River, giving it beautiful views and lush green surroundings. 🌳

The nearby rainforest is home to many animals, such as monkeys, toucans, and sloths!

The environment in Paramaribo is unique and full of life! 🌿

The city is surrounded by lush rainforests, which are home to countless plants and animals, some of which can only be found in Suriname! It’s important for the people to take care of their environment, so many initiatives work to protect the forests and rivers. Pollution can sometimes be a problem, but the community works together to keep the city clean and green! 🌳

Wildlife preservation is also crucial for keeping Paramaribo's beautiful surroundings healthy for future generations! 🦜

Getting around in Paramaribo is fun and easy! 🚗

The city has buses, cars, and bicycles. Most people walk or ride bikes for short distances since the weather is warm. The roads are often lined with trees, which makes the journey enjoyable! 🚲

For longer trips, there are taxis and rental cars available. Paramaribo also has a nearby international airport, the Johan Adolf Pengel Airport, which connects it to other countries, allowing visitors to come and explore! ✈

️

The culture in Paramaribo is incredibly diverse! People from different backgrounds, including Afro-Surinamese, East Indian, Javanese, and Indigenous groups, all call it home. 🎉

The city celebrates various festivals and cultural events, like the Surinamese Carnival, where everyone dances and sings! Food is also a big part of the culture, with dishes like roti and pom being popular. The people are friendly and often speak Dutch, but you’ll hear many other languages, like Sranan Tongo! 🌈

In Paramaribo, there are several cool places to visit! 🌟

The historic inner city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful old buildings. The Central Market is bustling with colors, smells, and lots of tasty food! Don’t forget to check out Fort Zeelandia, a fort that plays an important role in Suriname's history. 🏰

Also, visit the beautiful Palmentuin, a garden filled with tall palm trees, where families can relax and enjoy nature! There’s always something exciting to do in Paramaribo! 🎢