Program European Heritage Days Guiana

1. 📍 Guided Tour of Saint-Michel Church in Matoury

Saint-Michel Church - Matoury, French Guiana © Credits: City of Matoury

Discover the history of Saint-Michel Church, a true gem of French Guiana’s heritage. Founded in the early 20th century, this church is a remarkable example of colonial religious architecture in French Guiana. Located in the heart of Matoury, it stands as a strong symbol of the local community and reflects the influence of Catholicism in the region.

The tour will feature an instrumental and musical discovery with Mr. Laidlow from the Victor Clet School of Music and Dance, who will present the church's organ.

Scheduled Events The program includes a guided tour of the church and a live organ concert. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Matoury's religious and musical history.

ℹ️ Practical Information Dates and times: Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Duration of the visit: Approximately 1h30. Price: Free. Registration: By email at karine.pingray@ville-matoury.fr.

2. 📍 Guided Tour of the Camp de la Transportation Riverbanks in Saint-Laurent du Maroni

Camp de la Transportation Riverbanks - Saint-Laurent du Maroni, French Guiana © Credits: City of Saint-Laurent du Maroni

Explore the riverbanks of the Camp de la Transportation and discover the history of the Saint-Laurent penal colony, a significant site of France’s penitentiary past. This tour will take you back to the era of convicts while also highlighting the evolution of the river and its role over the centuries.

Scheduled Events During the tour, a guide will share the history of the camp, the historic town, and the vital connection with the river, which has played a key role in shaping the region’s history.

ℹ️ Practical Information Dates and times: Friday, September 20, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Duration of the visit: Approximately 2 hours. Capacity: Limited to one class (cycles 4-5). Registration: By email at ciap.slm@saintlaurentdumaroni.fr or call 0694424299.

3. 📍 Heritage Canoe Tour on the Lawa River in Maripasoula

Lawa River - Maripasoula, French Guiana © Credits: Historyane

Embark on a canoe trip down the Lawa River to explore the region’s heritage treasures. Guided by an expert, you will visit archaeological remains from Amerindian, Bushinenge, and Creole gold-digger civilizations. This is a unique adventure to explore the authentic landscapes of the Upper Maroni and its rich history.

Scheduled Events A canoe journey to discover historical sites, archaeological remains, and local history.

ℹ️ Practical Information Dates and times: Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Price: €25 per person. Registration: By email at historyane@gmail.com, limited to 10 people per session.

4. 📍 Discovery of the Grand Port Maritime of French Guiana in Rémire-Montjoly

Grand Port Maritime of French Guiana - Rémire-Montjoly, French Guiana © Credits: Grand Port Maritime of French Guiana

As part of the European Heritage Days, take the opportunity to explore the Grand Port Maritime of French Guiana, a key player in the local economy. This guided tour will take you behind the scenes of the Dégrad-des-Cannes port, revealing its strategic role in regional economic development and its modern infrastructure.

Scheduled Events An engaging tour of the port facilities, equipment, and ongoing development projects for regional cooperation.

ℹ️ Practical Information Dates and times: Friday, September 20, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration: By email at gpmguyane@gmail.com, limited to 60 people per time slot, registration required with ID.

5. 📍 Night Tour of the Former Customs House in Cayenne

Former Customs House - Cayenne, French Guiana © Credits: DRAC French Guiana

Dive into the history of Cayenne’s former Customs House during a fascinating night tour. By flashlight, heritage professionals will guide you through this emblematic building, highlighting its unique architectural features.

Scheduled Events A nighttime exploration where you will discover the history and architecture of the Customs House, an important testimony to the colonial era.

ℹ️ Practical Information Dates and times: Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Duration of the visit: 1 hour. Registration: On-site or by email at mh.guyane@culture.gouv.fr. Visit in groups of 15 people, bring a flashlight.

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