Suriname is a small yet fascinating country located in South America. It is known for its unique culture, diverse wildlife, and rich history. In this article, we will explore ten fun and interesting facts about Suriname.
Firstly, Suriname is the smallest country in South America, covering an area of approximately 163,820 square kilometers. Despite its small size, Suriname boasts a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Dutch, African, and Indigenous cultures.
Secondly, nearly 50% of Suriname’s population lives in Paramaribo, the capital city. This bustling city is home to a variety of cultural landmarks, including the Presidential Palace and the Suriname River.
Thirdly, Suriname has only one cinema, which is located in Paramaribo. This unique cinema experience is a must-visit for tourists looking to experience local culture.
Fourthly, Suriname is one of two South American countries with left-side driving. This means that cars drive on the left-hand side of the road, which may be confusing for tourists who are used to right-side driving.
Fifthly, Suriname is the only nation outside of Europe with Dutch as the language of the majority. This is due to the country’s history as a Dutch colony.
Sixthly, the country’s name ‘Suriname’ derives from the Surinen people who lived in the area in the 16th century. This indigenous tribe played a significant role in the country’s history.
Seventhly, Suriname is known for its Dutch sugar plantations, which were established during the colonial period. These plantations played a significant role in the country’s economy and continue to influence local culture today.
Eighthly, Suriname is one of the world’s poorest countries, with over 70% of its population living under the poverty line. Despite this, the country’s natural resources, including bauxite and gold, offer potential for economic growth.
Ninthly, the official National Animal of Suriname is a bird species called the Lesser Kiskadee. This small bird is known for its distinctive call and can be found throughout the country’s forests and wetlands.
Suriname is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including jaguars, giant otters, and anacondas. The country’s rainforests and wetlands offer a unique opportunity for nature lovers to explore some of South America’s most unique ecosystems.
Suriname is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and unique geography. From its colonial past to its modern-day struggles, Suriname offers a unique perspective on South American culture and history.
Three Interesting Facts About Suriname
Surely, Suriname is a fascinating country with a unique cultural and geographical blend. Here are tree interesting facts about Suriname:
1. Suriname is the smallest country in South America with an area of only 163,820 square kilometers. Despite its small size, it is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including rainforests, savannahs, and mangrove forests.
2. Nearly half of Suriname’s population lives in its capital city Paramaribo. The city is known for its colorful wooden buildings, which are a blend of Dutch and Caribbean architectural styles.
3. Suriname is the only country in South America where left-side driving is practiced. This unique driving practice is a legacy of Suriname’s Dutch colonial history when the Netherlands practiced left-side driving.
Famous Attractions in Suriname
Suriname is a country located in South America, bordered by Guyana, French Guiana, Brazil, and the Atlantic Ocean. The country is well-known for its diverse tropical landscapes, unique cultural heritage, and historical significance.
One of Suriname’s most notable features is its Dutch sugar plantations, which were established in the 17th and 18th centuries. These plantations were responsible for producing large quantities of sugar, coffee, and cocoa, which were exported to Europe and other parts of the world. Today, many of these plantations have been preserved as historical landmarks, providing visitors with a glimpse into Suriname’s colonial past.
Suriname is also famous for its vibrant and diverse culture, which is influenced by a mix of African, Dutch, and indigenous traditions. Music and dance are an important part of Surinamese culture, with many unique styles and rhythms that reflect the country’s multicultural heritage. Additionally, Suriname is home to many different ethnic groups, including Creoles, Maroons, Hindustanis, Javanese, and Amerindians, which adds to the country’s cultural richness.
In terms of natural attractions, Suriname is known for its lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and diverse wildlife. The country is home to many protected areas, including the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors to Suriname can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and river cruises, as well as explore the country’s many historic sites and museums.
Suriname is famous for its Dutch sugar plantations, diverse culture, and natural beauty, making it a unique and fascinating destination for travelers.
The Economic Status of Suriname
Suriname is considered one of the world’s poorest countries, with a significant percentage of its population living below the poverty line. In fact, over 70% of the population is estimated to be living in poverty. The country’s economy heavily relies on the export of natural resources, such as gold, bauxite, and oil, but this has not translated into significant economic growth or prosperity for its citizens. Despite some recent efforts to diversify the economy, Suriname continues to face significant developmental challenges and remains one of the poorest nations in the region.
National Animal of Suriname
The national animal of Suriname is the Lesser Kiskadee, a bird species that belongs to the tyrant flycatcher family. The Lesser Kiskadee measures about 17 centimeters in length and has an olive-brown upper body and a yellow underbody. It also has a distinctive black band that runs through its eyes. The bird is known for its loud and melodious call, which is a common sound in the forests and wetlands of Suriname.
The Lesser Kiskadee is a common sight in Suriname’s coastal regions, and it is often found near water bodies such as rivers, ponds, and marshes. The bird feeds on insects, small fish, and crustaceans and is known to be a voracious eater. It is also a popular bird for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who visit Suriname to witness its diverse wildlife.
As the official national animal of Suriname, the Lesser Kiskadee is a symbol of the country’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage. The government of Suriname has taken measures to protect the bird’s habitat and promote conservation efforts to ensure that it continues to thrive in the country’s forests and wetlands.
Conclusion
Suriname is a fascinating country with a rich history and unique cultural characteristics. From its origins as a Dutch colony to its present-day status as an independent nation, Suriname has a lot to offer for those interested in exploring South America. With its diverse population, including indigenous peoples, Afro-Surinamese, and Javanese, among others, Suriname boasts a vibrant mix of traditions, languages, and customs. Despite its small size and challenges with poverty, Suriname remains a resilient and intriguing country, with much to discover and appreciate. Whether you’re interested in its wildlife, language, or history, Suriname is a country worth learning more about.
