Cayenne, Capital city in French Guiana, France
Cayenne is the capital of French Guiana on the Atlantic coast, where the river of the same name flows into the sea and wide streets run through a district with colonial buildings next to modern administrative offices. The waterfront connects old docks with new moorings, while parks and squares break up the urban fabric.
After several failed attempts, French settlers founded the city permanently in 1664 and used it as a base for trade with the Caribbean and Europe. In the 19th century, the place developed into an administrative center for penal colonies and remained the political hub of the overseas territory even after their closure.
The name comes from early settlers who named it after the pepper variety, while today the city blends Creole, French, and several indigenous languages in daily life. Markets like the Marché Central show how residents buy fresh spices, tropical fruits, and handmade goods, making different cultural influences visible.
Those who want to walk will find most sights in the compact center reachable within 20 minutes, while side streets often offer shady paths through residential areas. Public buses run during the day to main districts and the airport, though travel times can vary due to traffic.
The old fort on Cépérou hill offers a wide view over the estuary and city, with remnants of stone walls from the 17th century still standing among palms and green spaces. Few visitors know that tunnels run beneath the fort, once protecting military supplies and today partly accessible.
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