Accra is the capital of the African country of Ghana. Acraa is the gateway of Ghana to the world. One of the most modern cities of Africa, Accra is the trade, industry and cultural center of Ghana. The word Accra is derived from Nkran. Nkran means ants. Accra took this name from the numerous, hump-shaped anthill around.
Located on the banks of the Gulf of Guinea, Accra is also an important commercial center. Accra is generally located in a flat area.
When did Accra Become the Capital?
When the Portuguese first settled on the shore of Ghana in 1482, they took over management in the Accra region. Later, the Europeans (the British, the Danish and the Dutch) built many castles in Accra and turned Accra into a commercial center. By the mid-1800s, the Dutch and the Danish left the region and the dominance in the region was left to the British. In 1877, Accra became the capital of the British Gold Coast colony. In 1898, a city council was established to improve the city.
During World War II, the Accra became a crucial link between Europe and East Asia in the Allied transport network. After the war, Accra marched into a government seat at Christiansborg Castle, a group of veterans not satisfied with the British, and sparked anti-colonial feelings in the country. The demonstrators were fired by the police and those who died in these protests. This triggered a wave of revolts expressing dissatisfaction with the colonial administration and further strengthened the nationalist feeling.
After Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African colony to win independence in 1957, the nationalist leader and first Prime Minister Kwame Nkrumah declared Accra the capital.
Features of Accra
Accra has a population of 1.6 million according to 2014 data. Accra has an area of 60 square kilometers. Accra is located in the Savannah area. In Accra, where the tropical climate is dominant, the average annual temperature is 26.8 degrees. The hottest month is March with 28 degrees and the coolest month is August with 24 degrees. There are 2 rainy seasons in Accra: mid-May to mid-July, mid-August-October. In cool periods, humidity is higher than in hot periods.
The most prosperous areas of Accra are Hatso, Adenta, Taifa, and Malam. Shaking hands with the left hand is the most used type of greeting, especially among men. It is inconvenient to swim in lakes and rivers.
Festivals and celebrations are part of the culture of Ghana. Many ethnic groups have many festivals. Homowo, Odwira, Aboakyer, Dodoleglime, Hogbetsotso, Tedudu, Deza and Sandema are various festivals. In addition, birth, adolescence, marriage and death are also celebrated with various rituals. Each celebration is like a separate festival.
The most famous regional dishes are: Fufui Kenkey, Banku, Ampesi, Garito and Tsintsinga (Ghana Kebabı). As a snack Kelewele and Tatale is consumed a lot. Local alcohol production is also carried out. Akpeteshie 40% alcohol-containing gin, Palm wine and Pito wine can be tried. Non-alcoholic wines are also available; Asaana (Egyptian wine), Lamujii (Ginger wine).
Important Places to See in Accra
The warm and friendly Ghana will be happy to help you with your stay here. Welcoming locals, sunny beaches, cultural places offer you a different experience. Le Pleasure Beach is one of the most important places to see in Accra. If you’re looking for a place to swim and enjoy the sun in Accra, the best address for you is Le Pleasure Beach. Enjoy the peace and joyful atmosphere of this beach, which is the meeting point of those who plan a vacation with young people and family with its azure waters and sandy beach.
Another must-see is the James Town Lighthouse and the National Museum of Ghana. If you like watching the landscape, you can visit James Town Lighthouse. Although the lighthouse is full of rubbish due to lack of care, you should visit the city and visit the city for a short visit. The National Museum of Ghana is one of the most visited places in the city. If you want to learn more in this museum where you can find interesting details about the history and lifestyle of the country, it is best to make your trip with a guide. When you go to the museum, take a look at the sculptures in the garden.