Forts and Castles of the Greater Accra, Volta, Central and Western Regions

The Forts and Castles of the Greater Accra, Volta, Central and Western Regions

The Forts and Castles of the Greater Accra, Volta, Central and Western Regions were built between 1482 and 1786 along the coast of Ghana between Keta and Beyin. They are remnants of the trade routes established by the Portuguese during their great Age of Exploration across the world. These forts are concrete witnesses to the dramatic episodes in human history, as well as being among the most significant sites of the transatlantic slave trade.

Today, the sight of cannons still pointing out to sea evokes endless imagination of the dramatic scenes of exploration, discovery, and even the horrific events that unfolded. Among them, Elmina Castle is the earliest known European building constructed in the tropics. Built in 1482 by the Portuguese during their early global explorations, this massive fortress houses the first Gothic cathedral on the sub-Saharan African mainland.

Cultural performances are also frequently held here, but what draws visitors the most are the reenactments of the horrifying slave trade and the harrowing depictions of Africans awaiting transport to the Americas through nightmarish dungeons.

Forts and Castles, Volta Greater Accra, Central and Western Regions

Why Go: The Most Haunting Forts

Continent: Africa

Country/Region: Ghana

Province/State: Greater Accra Region