Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname, enjoys an elegant environment that encompasses colonial architecture in the style of the Netherlands, France, Spain, and Britain. The magnificent buildings of brick structure in Paramaribo offers a wonderful view of green squares, with wooden houses stretching on the squeezed streets. Shady roads are formed by thrusting palm trees and river banks lined with forests of mangroves. Mosques and synagogues stand side by side, Javanese vendors hawk their delectable barbecue, and people with a Dutch accent are swilling beer on the roadside. The heart of Paramaribo is Independence Square in front of the Presidential Palace. Behind the palace is located Palmentuin, where tropical birds dwell in beautiful parks with tall palm trees. In the east stands the Fort Zeelandia.