Paramaribo: Paramaribo is the capital of Suriname. The city was likely named for the Paramaribo tribes living there near the mouth of the river. The name Paramaribo is probably a corruption of the name of a native village, spelled Parmurbo Fort Zeelandia: The fort was originally built during a British colonial period, which was then reinforced and became Fort Willoughby. It was taken by the Dutch in 1667 and renamed Fort Zeelandia.
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral: The cathedral is dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, the patron saints of the fortress.
Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge: The bridge is named after former president Jules Wijdenbosch. However also has the name of Bosje Brug to locals. Brug meaning bridge in dutch, the national language of Suriname
Nieuw Nickerie: The name Nickerie is most likely named after Neekeari which was first reported by Teenstra in 1596 for an indigenous tribe living the area.
Commewijne river: The Commewijne River was orginally known in the 16th and 17th centuries as "Camaiwini" and/or "Cammawini". The current name "Commewijne" is most likely derived from Arawak words "kama" (tapir) and "wini" (water/river).
Joden Savanne: Joden Savanne is also known a Jews’ savannah. It was established in the 17th century, it started as an agricultural community that was developed by Spanish Jews fleeing persecution.
Onafhankelijkheidsplein: Additionally known as Independence Square, Onafhankelijkheidsplein, is home to some of the most important buildings in Suriname, those buildings being colonial and governmental buildings.
Lelydorp: Lelydorp was originally called Kofi Djompo but was renamed by Cornelis Lely (a Dutch governor of Suriname in 1905) and since then it is known as Lelydorp. The original name Kofi Djompo is believed to refer to a maroon rebel leader called Kofi, who escaped by jumping over a creek.
Suriname: Spanish explorers visit the area in 1593 and name it Suriname, after the country's earliest inhabitants, the Surinen.
There is a pattern relating to the history of people for toponyms of Suriname. We see some examples such as Joden Savanne, Fort Zeelandia, and Lelydrop. These places are influenced by the colonial period, political power and refugees. Suriname is a country that is rich in its history and evolving with time. (analysis by Minon Kirkpatrick)