The Préfecture is the seat of the French state representative in Guiana and one of the grandest of Cayenne's colonial buildings. Built in the 19th century, it occupies a long, pale-stuccoed block above the Place des Palmistes, with shaded verandas, sweeping staircases and palm-shaded grounds.
The interior is closed to the public except on European Heritage Days in September, when it briefly opens for guided tours. Walk by for the facade and the gardens, which preserve mature royal palms and traveller's trees.