Our Visit to the Slave Castles in Ghana

During our visit to Ghana in 2018. We visited both Elmina and Cape Coast Castles in Ghana. Both Castles are located in the central Region of Ghana. Both experiences are a must and offer a glimpse into the history of the slave trade. 

The first recorded mention of Elmina Castle is in a letter from Portuguese explorer, Duarte Pacheco Pereira, in 1481. The castle, which was built by the Portuguese in 1482, served as a base for the slave trade. It was the first trading post built on the Gulf of Guinea, and the oldest European building in existence south of the Sahara. In 1637, the Dutch took control of the castle and used it as a base for their own slave-trading operations.

During Elimina Castle's time as a slave-trading port, an estimated 30,000 slaves passed through its gates each year. These captives were brought from all over Africa and sold to buyers in the Americas. The journey from Africa to the Americas was known as the Middle Passage, and it was notoriously brutal.

Many captives did not survive the voyage due to disease, starvation, or abuse. Those who did arrive in the Americas were often put to work in brutal conditions on plantations.

The slave trade continued at Elmina Castle until 1814 when the Dutch ended their participation in the slave trade. In 1872, the castle was transferred to the British, who used it as a prison for political prisoners and later as a girls' school.

It wasn't until 1957 that the gold coast, which is now Ghana, gained independence from Britain. Ghana then received control of Elmina Castle, which was then turned into a museum. Today, it is one of Ghana's most popular tourist destinations.

Cape Coast Castle, which is located about 30 miles west of Elmina, was originally a Portuguese trading post when it was established in 1555. The Dutch took control of the castle in 1665, and it eventually fell under British rule in 1682.

The castle was used as a holding facility for slaves before they were shipped to the Americas. It is estimated that between 1662 and 1867, over 500,000 slaves passed through Cape Coast Castle.

In 1877, the British closed the castle, and it was turned into a military barracks. It wasn't until Ghana gained independence in 1957 that the castle was opened to the public as a museum.

Elmina and Cape Coast Castle are both reminders of the dark history of the slave trade. They stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of the captured African people and offer a unique look into the past. These two Ghanaian landmarks are definitely worth a visit.

The Elmina and Cape Coast Castles are both owned by the Ghanaian government and are open to the public as museums. Guided tours are available at both locations allowing visitors to learn more about the history of the slave trade in Ghana.

Elmina and Cape Coast Castles are both major tourist destinations in Ghana. These castles offer a unique look into the history of the slave trade as well as a glimpse into Ghanaian culture.

Tourist activities at these locations also include shopping for souvenirs, exploring the nearby beaches, and enjoying the local cuisine.

The Elmina and Cape Coast Castles are must-see destinations for anyone interested in learning more about the slave trade or West African culture. Join our black travel group as we travel throughout West African exploring the culture, history, and traditions of a nation.

Join us on an upcoming Tour

Ready to expand your horizons? Join us as we explore the globe together! Our trips are open to all including solo travelers, single travelers, couples, and even group travelers.  Check out our website to view our upcoming Ghana Packages or view many of our other group trips to other destinations around the world.  Our Travel Group is like no other. 

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