Elmina Castle Ghana Oldest European Buildings

Elmina Castle, located in Ghana, is one of the oldest European buildings in Sub-Saharan Africa. Built by the Portuguese in 1482, this castle was the site of many horrific acts against Africans as it served as a hub for the slave trade. Today, Elmina Castle serves as a memorial to those impacted by slavery and a reminder of what happened in the past.

Elmina Castle Ghana Oldest European Buildings Summary

Attraction Name: Elmina Castle
Country: Ghana
Continent: African
Capital Name: Accra
Language: English
Currency: Ghanaian Cedi
Nationality: Ghanaian

Why must you visit Elmina Castle Ghana?

Elmina Castle is a must-visit tourist attraction in Ghana, not just for its historical value and significance, but also for its sheer beauty. Elmina Castle is the oldest European fort in Africa and has been rebuilt many times over the centuries. It was initially constructed by the Portuguese in 1482 and constitutes the beginning of slave trading in the region. Elmina Castle serves as a memorial to the millions of slaves who were transported through the Slave Coast and endured an extremely difficult journey.

As such, it stands as a reminder of one of the darkest periods in human history. Additionally, Elmina Castle is also a great place to take in the breathtaking views of the ocean, learn about the diverse cultural history of the region, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Tell us about Elmina Castle Ghana

Elmina Castle is the oldest European structure in Ghana, dating back to the 15th century. It was built by the Portuguese in 1482 as a trading post, to control the gold and slave trade in the region. The castle has undergone several renovations since then and was used by various African and European powers during its 500-year-long history.

It is now listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is open to visitors who wish to learn more about the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The castle is a symbol of the brutality suffered by Africans during the slave trade, and a reminder of how the people of West Africa were impacted by this horrific period in history.

What are the things to do in Elmina Castle Ghana?

Elmina Castle, located in the Central Region of Ghana, is one of the oldest and most popular castles in Africa and a symbol of the Atlantic slave trade. The castle, originally built by the Portuguese in 1482 and later expanded by the Dutch in 1637, served as a trading post for over 400 years and was a major hub for the trans-Atlantic slave trade during that time. Along with the nearby Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle is a vivid reminder of the tragic, but important, history of this region between the 15th and 19th centuries.

Visiting Elmina Castle is one of the most unique and interesting things to do in Ghana. Tours of the castle generally start from the upstairs balconies, from which the officers and merchants conducted their business. This is a great opportunity to gain an understanding of the history of the castle and insight into the everyday life of the people who lived at the time. As visitors proceed downstairs, they can view the dungeons and cells where slaves were kept and visit the chapel, where captured Africans were baptized before being shipped to the New World.

Entering the courtyard, visitors can marvel at the architecture and view the bronze cannon from which the slave traders launched their business. Facing the lagoon, they can look out to the surrounding landscape and contemplate the millions of lives lost during the trading period. A visit to the old barracoon is also recommended, where visitors can learn how slaves were housed and traded prior to the start of the trans-Atlantic journeys.

Finally, visitors can explore the shops, restaurants and galleries located around the castle. These are a great way to learn more about the local culture and pick up some souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.

Elmina Castle is a reminder of a dark period in history, but it is also a place of education and national pride. A visit to Elmina Castle can be a powerful experience for anyone interested in the region’s history and culture.

What are the best foods at Elmina Castle Ghana?

The best foods to try at Elmina Castle are:

Legon Rice Balls: This dish is a traditional Ghanaian treat made from sticky white rice, onion and peppery black pepper sauce.
Waakye: A Ghanaian dish made from cooked black-eyed peas and rice. It is served with boiled plantains, grilled tilapia, sardines, tomato sauce, and spicy pepper sauce.
Fufu and Light Soup: A West African dish made from yam, plantain, or cassava. It is served with a light soup made from okra, palm nut cream, or groundnut.
Kenkey: A Ghanaian dish made from fermented corn dough and spices. It is often served with fried tilapia or stew.
Plantain Fritters: Fried plantain slices, served with a variety of sauces.
Jollof Rice: A West African dish made with rice and tomato sauce. A variety of meats and vegetables are often added.
Peanut Soup: A traditional Ghanaian soup made with groundnut paste. It is often served with fufu or kenkey.