Building said Palmist Bar or House Themire

Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Maison Thémire, better known as Bar des Palmistes, is an emblematic monument in Cayenne, Guyana. Built at the end of the 19th century, it embodies the wood architecture typical of the overseas departments of that time. Its location on the Place des Palmistes, about 400 meters from the sea, makes it a central place in the life of Cayennais. The building, probably built after the fire of 1888 that ravaged part of the city, was transformed into a hotel-restaurant with bar and terrace in 1908, marking its evolution towards a tourist and social vocation.

Between 1919 and 1924, the house will house MP Jean Galmot, a local political figure. After 1930, it finally became a hotel, consolidating its role in welcoming travellers and residents. The site gained literary fame by serving as a setting for Denis Tillinac's novel Le Bar des Palmistes (1989). Its heritage importance is recognized by a classification at the Historical Monuments on 19 May 1994, protecting its facades and roofs, characteristic of the Creole craft.

The building also illustrates Cayenne's urban resilience after the 19th century fires, while symbolizing the mix of European and local architectural influences. Today, there remains a living testimony of Guyana's colonial and post-colonial history, between political memory, social life and built heritage. Its official address, 12 avenue du Général-de-Gaulle, makes it a must-see geographical and cultural landmark.

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