Suriname

A Dutch-speaking country with one of the most diverse populations in the Americas, including Maroon, Indigenous, Javanese and Indian communities.

Crafts Spirituality & rites Music & dance Food & cooking Language & oral Textile & dress

Knowledge in this place

Maroon Woodcarving

Maroon Woodcarving

The carving of interlaced geometric tembe motifs on stools, doors and combs by Maroon communities of the interior.

Winti

An Afro-Surinamese religion centered on spirits and ancestors, expressed through possession, song and drumming.

Spirituality & rites

Kawina

An Afro-Surinamese drumming and song style from the Commewijne region, sung mostly in Sranan Tongo.

Pom

Pom

A Surinamese-Jewish baked casserole of grated pomtajer root and chicken, served at celebrations.

Sranan Tongo

Sranan Tongo

An English-based creole that serves as the everyday lingua franca across Suriname's communities.

Language & oral

Pangi Textile

Pangi Textile

A colourful wrap cloth of the Maroons, decorated with appliqué and embroidery carrying coded meanings.

Textile & dress