Fort St. Jago is a historical fort located in the coastal town of Elmina, in the Central Region of Ghana. It is situated on a hill overlooking the town and the Atlantic Ocean. Sometimes referred to as as Coenraadsburg
Brief history of Fort St. Jago when it was built and its purpose
The fort was built by the Portuguese in the late 15th century as a defensive structure to protect their trading interests in the region. It was later captured by the Dutch in the 17th century, and they used it as a trading post for gold and other valuable commodities.
During the slave trade era, the fort was also used as a holding place for enslaved Africans who were being transported to the Americas. It was a place of great suffering and hardship for these individuals, and the fort has come to symbolize the brutality of the transatlantic slave trade.
How you can visit Fort St. Jago today and what to expect
Today, Fort St. Jago is open to visitors as a museum and historical site. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history, as well as the wider history of Elmina and Ghana. The fort offers panoramic views of the town and the ocean, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
