Cape Coast, Ghana - February 15, 2014: Colorful moored wooden fishing boats in African harbor town Cape Coast with colonial castle in background; Shutterstock ID 1089742331; your: Barbara Di Castro; gl: 65050; netsuite: digital; full: hub
1089742331

Shutterstock / Fabian Plock

Cape Coast

Forever haunted by the colonial horrors of the past, Cape Coast is one of Africa's most culturally significant spots. This former European colonial capital, originally named Cabo Corso by the Portuguese, was once the largest centre for the trade of enslaved people in West Africa. At the height of the trade it received trafficked people from locations as far away as Niger and Burkina Faso, and enslaved people were kept locked up in the bowels of Cape Coast's imposing castle. At the shoreline, these enslaved people were herded onto vessels like cattle, irrevocably altering the lives of generations to come.


Attractions

Must-see attractions for your itinerary

Guidebooks

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Get to the heart of Cape Coast with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Go Beyond

Cape Coast and beyond