TLA Study Tours

As learning isn’t complete without travel, TLA participants will be going on study tours to various landmarks in Ghana to strengthen their experiences and exposure. Below are the landmarks:

Elmina Castle

Also known as St. George’s Castle, Elmina Castle is located in Elmina, Ghana. The Portuguese built it in 1482 as a trade settlement and military fortification. The castle, the oldest European building in Sub-Saharan Africa, was also one of the first contact points between Europeans and West Africans. It was initially built to protect Portuguese trade interests in gold, ivory, and spices and to serve as a base for the Portuguese slave trade. It became the first European slave-trading post in Africa when the Portuguese started transporting enslaved Africans to the Americas in the late 15th century. The Dutch, the British, and the Danes later used the castle for the same purposes.

In 1979, Elmina Castle was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It now serves as a museum and a popular tourist attraction in Ghana. The castle, made of stone and four bastions, has been well-preserved over the years, retaining much of its original architectural features. Inside the castle, several exhibits tell its story and role in the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can see the cells where enslaved Africans were kept before being shipped across the Atlantic and the courtyard where they were auctioned off to European slave traders. There is also an exhibit on the history of the castle and its various uses over the years.

In addition to its historical significance, Elmina Castle is notable for its cultural and architectural significance. The castle is an essential example of European medieval military architecture in Sub-Saharan Africa, and it has influenced the design of other castles and fortifications in the region. The castle is also an important cultural site for the people of Elmina and Ghana, as it symbolises their history and struggles against colonialism. Despite its dark history, Elmina Castle has become a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Ghana. It is a testament to their ability to overcome adversity and build a better future for themselves and future generations. Although it is a reminder of the past, it also serves as a beacon of hope for the future, representing the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Ashanti Region Tourist Sites

The Ashanti Region, located in south-central Ghana, is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. It is home to several tourist sites that attract visitors from around the world.

One of the most popular tourist sites in the region is the Kumasi Cultural Centre, which features a museum, art gallery, and theatre. The museum displays a range of artefacts, including traditional Ashanti clothing, weapons, and musical instruments, as well as historical documents and photographs. The art gallery showcases the work of local artists, while the theatre hosts a variety of cultural performances. Another popular tourist destination is the Kumasi Central Market, the largest market in West Africa. Visitors can find various goods, including clothing, crafts, and food. The market is also a great place to experience local culture and interact with the friendly locals.

The Ashanti Region houses several natural attractions, such as the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary and the Boti Falls. The Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary is home to various primates, including the mona monkey and the black-and-white colobus monkey. Visitors can take guided tours of the sanctuary and learn about the conservation efforts undertaken to protect these animals. The Boti Falls, located in the Bia National Park, is a beautiful waterfall popular with tourists and locals.

Another popular tourist site in the Ashanti Region is the Manhyia Palace, the former residence of the Ashanti kings. The palace is now a museum that houses various historical artefacts, including traditional Ashanti clothing and jewellery. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace and learn about the history and culture of the Ashanti people.

In addition to these tourist sites, the Ashanti Region is home to several festivals and events that attract visitors from around the world. The most famous of these is the Adae Kese Festival, held annually in honour of the Ashanti kings. The festival features traditional music, dance, and food and is an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Ashanti culture. The Ashanti Region is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural attractions, the Ashanti Region has a story to offer everyone.

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is a historical site located in Accra, the capital of Ghana. It is dedicated to the memory of Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana and a prominent figure in the country’s independence movement. The park was established in 1992, on the 100th anniversary of Nkrumah’s birth, and is now a popular tourist attraction in Accra. The park is located on the site of the former Flagstaff House, which served as the presidential palace under Nkrumah’s administration. It has been converted into a museum showcasing Nkrumah’s life and achievements and his role in the independence struggle and the establishment of the Republic of Ghana. It displays various artefacts and personal items belonging to Nkrumah, including photographs, documents, and clothing.

In addition to the museum, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park also features a sculpture garden and a mausoleum where Nkrumah’s remains are interred. The sculpture garden contains several statues and busts of Nkrumah and other notable figures in Ghanaian history. The mausoleum is a grand structure that is a tribute to Nkrumah’s contributions to the nation. The park also has a research library and an auditorium, which are used for educational programs and events. It is a popular destination for students and researchers interested in the history and culture of Ghana.

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is open to the public every day except on certain public holidays. Admission is free, but visitors are encouraged to donate to help support the maintenance and upkeep of the park. As a unique and educational attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into Ghana’s rich history and culture, it is a fitting tribute to Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy. It serves as an important reminder of the country’s journey to independence.

W.E.B Dubois Center

The W.E.B Dubois Center in Ghana is a museum and research centre located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. The centre is named after the renowned African American sociologist and civil rights leader W.E.B Dubois, who spent the last years of his life in Ghana and is buried there. The centre was established in 1992 to honour Dubois and his contributions to sociology and civil rights contributions. It is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Dubois and promoting cultural exchange between Ghana and the United States.

The centre features a museum that showcases the life and work of Dubois and a research library that houses a collection of books, documents, and other materials related to Dubois and the African American experience. The museum and library are open to the public and offer a wealth of information about Dubois and civil rights history in the United States. Along with its museum and research library, the W.E.B Dubois Center also hosts a variety of educational programs and events, including lectures, workshops, and performances. These programs are designed to educate and engage the community and to promote understanding and dialogue about important social and cultural issues. The W.E.B Dubois Center is an essential resource for the people of Ghana and beyond. It serves as a hub for intellectual and artistic exchange and a reminder of the important role that W.E.B Dubois played in shaping the world we live in today.

Cape Coast Castle

Cape Coast Castle is a castle in Cape Coast, Ghana, initially built by the Portuguese in the 15th century and later used by the Swedish, Danish, Dutch, and British to trade gold, ivory, and slaves. Located on the coast of Ghana, the castle was an important trading post in West Africa and a vital part of the transatlantic slave trade. The Portuguese originally constructed the castle in 1482, but it was later captured by the Swedes, who used it as a trading post for gold, ivory, and other goods. In 1653, the castle was captured by the Dutch, who expanded it and used it as a base for their slave trade. The castle was later taken over by the British in 1664, and it became an important hub for the transatlantic slave trade. During the slave trade, the castle was used as a holding cell for enslaved Africans waiting to be shipped to the New World. The castle was divided into different areas for men, women, and children, and the conditions were often harsh and inhumane. Many slaves died while being held at the castle, and those who survived the journey to the New World often experienced a lifetime of hardship and suffering.

After the abolition of the slave trade in the 19th century, the castle was used as a prison and a government administrative centre. In the 20th century, it was converted into a museum to honor the memory of those who were impacted by the transatlantic slave trade. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and a poignant reminder of past atrocities. The Cape Coast Castle has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered a symbol of the brutalities of the slave trade and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Visitors learn about the history of the transatlantic slave trade and the role of the castle in this dark period of history. The castle is also home to many exhibits and artefacts that provide insight into the lives of the enslaved Africans who were held there. The Cape Coast Castle is an important historical site that serves as a reminder of the brutalities of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on countless lives. It is a powerful symbol of the resilience of the human spirit and serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and learning from past mistakes.

Kakum National Park

Kakum National Park is a tropical rainforest located in the Central Region of Ghana, about 40 kilometres north of the country’s capital city, Accra. It is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species and is renowned for its unique canopy walkway. The park covers an area of about 375 square kilometres and is home to some threatened species, including the African elephant, the bongo antelope, and the African golden cat. The forest is also home to many primates, including the endangered Diana monkey and the white-breasted guenon.

The main attraction of Kakum National Park is the canopy walkway, which stretches for about 330 meters through the rainforest treetops. The walkway, made of steel and rope, is suspended about 100 feet above the ground and offers breathtaking views of the forest and its wildlife. Visitors can also take guided tours of the park to learn about the diverse plant and animal life. In addition to its rich biodiversity, Kakum National Park is also a popular destination for cultural tourism. The park is home to some traditional villages, where visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the local people. It also has several educational programs and workshops which aim to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and the need to protect the rainforest.

Kakum National Park is an essential contributor to the local economy and a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors. The Park is managed by the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission of Ghana, which works to protect the park’s natural resources and ensure that it remains a sustainable tourist destination. The park is open to the public year-round and offers a range of accommodation options, including campsites and lodges. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, conservation, and cultural tourism. Its unique canopy walkway, diverse plant and animal life, and rich cultural heritage make it an exceptional and memorable destination.

Fort St Jago

Fort St Jago is a historic military fort in Elmina, in the Central Region of Ghana. It was built by the Portuguese in the 15th century and played a vital role in the country’s colonial history. The fort is a popular tourist attraction and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Like Elmina Castle and Cape Coast Castle, Fort St Jago was constructed in 1482 by the Portuguese as a defence to protect their regional trading interests. It was named after St James, the patron saint of Portugal, and was one of several forts built along the West African coast by the Portuguese in the late medieval period. Over the centuries, the fort has played a significant role in the history of Ghana. It was an important centre of the slave trade, and many thousands of Africans were held captive within its walls before being shipped across the Atlantic to the New World. The fort was also a key trading post used to store and trade a wide range of goods, including gold, ivory, and spices.

Fort St Jago is now a popular tourist attraction open to the public year-round. Visitors can explore the fort’s various rooms and chambers, including the chapel, the governor’s residence, and the dungeons where slaves were held. The fort is also home to several exhibits and displays, which provide information about its history and role in the slave trade.

Fort St Jago is also a beautiful and impressive architectural structure. Its thick walls, battlements, and towers give it an imposing appearance, and the views from its ramparts are breathtaking. The fort is on the coast, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or cultural tourism. Its rich history and beautiful setting make it a truly unique and memorable destination.

Posuban Shrines

Posuban shrines are traditional African shrines found in the coastal region of Ghana. They are an essential part of the culture and history of the region and are considered sacred by many locals. They are typically found in the Ashanti and Fante regions of Ghana and are often associated with the Asafo, or warrior, companies of the Fante people. Posuban shrines are typically rectangular and decorated with colourful patterns and symbols. They are usually painted bright red, yellow, and green and adorned with symbols such as crosses, diamonds, and stars. These symbols represent the gods and spirits worshipped at the shrine.

Posuban shrines are used for various purposes, such as places of worship, gathering places for community events, and places of refuge during times of conflict. They are also used to honour and pay tribute to ancestors and are often decorated with traditional African masks and other objects of cultural significance. One of the most notable features of Posuban shrines is that they are often decorated with figurines and carvings of animals, such as lions, elephants, and crocodiles. These animals are believed to represent the strength and power of the gods and are thought to protect the shrine from harm.

In addition to their cultural and spiritual significance, Posuban shrines are also an essential part of the tourist industry in Ghana. Many tourists visit these shrines to learn about the culture and history of the region and to experience the traditional African spiritual practices that are still a part of everyday life in many parts of Ghana. Posuban shrines are integral to the culture and history of Ghana. They are a testament to the region’s solid spiritual traditions and an essential part of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Beaches

Ghana has a long coastline that stretches for over 550 kilometres and is home to several beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beach destinations in the country include Labadi Beach, located in the capital city of Accra and known for its white sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife; Busua Beach, located in the Western Region of the country and known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful sunsets; and Kokrobite Beach in the Greater Accra Region and popular with surfers and backpackers. In addition to their natural beauty, Ghana’s beaches also offer a wide range of tourist activities and amenities. Many of the country’s beaches have restaurants, bars, and other facilities that cater to tourists. Several water sports and other activities are available, such as surfing, snorkelling, and boat trips.

Ghana’s beaches contribute to the local economy, as they are a significant source of employment for many people in the country. Many of the country’s beach resorts and hotels are locally owned and operated. Ghana’s beaches are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in sun, sand, and sea. Their beautiful natural surroundings and wide range of activities and amenities make them the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Assin Manso Slave River

Assin Manso Slave River is a historic site in the Central Region of Ghana. It is the site of the final stop on the trans-Atlantic slave trade route and is an essential part of the country’s history and cultural heritage. The Assin Manso Slave River is located in the town of Assin Manso, about 130 kilometres west of the capital city of Accra. The river is a small tributary of the Pra River and is surrounded by lush vegetation and rolling hills. The site of the Assin Manso Slave River is significant because it was the last stop on the trans-Atlantic slave trade route for many enslaved people transported from West Africa to the New World. It was here that slaves were made to undergo a final “door of no return,” which was a ritual that symbolised their departure from Africa and their journey into the unknown. The Assin Manso Slave River is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by thousands yearly. The site includes some historical landmarks and monuments, including a slave market, a slave castle, and a museum that documents the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

In addition to its historical significance, the Assin Manso Slave River is an important cultural and spiritual site for many people in Ghana. Many traditional African religious ceremonies and rituals are held at the site, and it is considered a sacred place by many local people. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and spirituality. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a truly unique and memorable destination.