Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral Basilica
A wooden Gothic Revival cathedral in Paramaribo, among the largest timber churches anywhere.
Updated 3 September 2026
UNESCO World Heritage
The cathedral on Gravenstraat is built entirely of wood, a Gothic Revival design of 1885 with twin towers, raised in cedar and greenheart rather than stone because that is what Suriname had, and the interior is unpainted timber throughout with the structure left visible. It is generally counted among the largest wooden buildings in the Americas and is named in the UNESCO inscription of the inner city. It was raised to the rank of basilica in 2014, and the twin towers remain the tallest structures in the historic centre.
What's there
- The timber construction - the whole building raised in cedar and greenheart.
- The unpainted interior - bare wood with the structure left visible.
- The twin towers - the 1885 Gothic Revival front.
- The scale - among the largest wooden buildings in the Americas.
When to go
Year round. The cathedral is generally open through the day. Services take priority.
Practical notes
The building went through years of closure for restoration and work continues in parts. It is a working cathedral and services come first. Photography inside may be restricted.
Nearby
Fort Zeelandia is southeast, and the Palmentuin is east.
What to pack for Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral Basilica
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Modest clothing - Shoulders and knees covered - the single most common requirement. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A scarf or shawl - To cover the head or shoulders on entry; women especially at mosques. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
