Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam
Open-Air Museum in Commewijne
At the point where the Suriname River and the Commewijne meet stands a fort that has seen everything. War, occupation, imprisonment, and now one of the most absorbing open-air museums in Suriname. Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam was built between 1734 and 1747, born of necessity after a devastating raid by French buccaneers in 1712.
What began as a defence works grew into a place where the whole colonial history of Suriname came together — battle by battle, year after year.
Why Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam matters:
- Built between 1734 and 1747 by the Society of Suriname — one of the best-preserved colonial forts in the region
- Scene of the British invasion of Suriname in 1804, and the first time in history that shrapnel shells were used in combat
- Between 1863 and 1967 the fort served as a prison — the same walls that once protected soldiers later held prisoners inside
- Home to the decommissioned lightship Suriname-Rivier, permanently moored in a wet dock within the fort
- After Suriname’s independence in 1975, a monument was raised within the walls
Visiting Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam
Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam is part of the Commewijne tour, a day excursion taking in the finest museums, forts and plantations on the other side of the river. One of the most complete historical tours Suriname has to offer.
Highlights
From fort to prison
Built to defend Suriname, later notorious as “the Hell of Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam”.
Views over two rivers
At the point where the Suriname River and the Commewijne come together.
Photos
Grietjebie tip
Walk out to the ramparts and look across the confluence of the two rivers.
Practical Info
Address
Nieuw Amsterdam, Commewijne
Hours
Daily
Atmosphere
Historic and educational
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