Rediscovering Fort Boekoe: A VR Journey into Suriname’s Maroon Resistance

Over two centuries ago, Fort Boekoe served as a sanctuary and a base of resistance for the Maroons—enslaved people who escaped the plantations of Suriname in pursuit of freedom. Led by the heroic Boni, alongside Baron and Jolicoeur, they fought fiercely against Dutch colonial rule. Hidden deep within the dense jungles of Marowijne, the Maroons made themselves almost untouchable, immortal, and untraceable. The settlement became a powerful symbol of resistance to slavery and oppression and a testament to strength and resilience.

Though the physical fort no longer exists, its legacy has been preserved through oral traditions of song, dance, and storytelling. With Luku fu Boekoe, visitors can now rediscover this mythical place through captivating stories and a detailed 3D reconstruction. The VR tour allows participants to explore the fort’s possible appearance while immersing themselves in the rich oral history passed down through generations.

This groundbreaking project by Stichting Boekoe was made possible with support from DutchCulture, as part of the Matching Fund of the International Heritage Cooperation, and the Mondriaan Fonds. It invites everyone to delve into a story of defiance, freedom, and heritage—that continues to inspire and resonate today.