Black Star Square (Independence Square) Accra – Visitor Guide

Black Star Square, also known as Independence Square, is one of Ghana’s most important national landmarks. Located on Accra’s coastline, the vast ceremonial square is home to the Independence Arch and Black Star Gate and is used for major national celebrations, parades and public events.

The square was commissioned by Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, following Ghana’s independence in 1957 and was completed in 1961, coinciding with the state visit of Queen Elizabeth II.

If you’re exploring Accra’s history, Black Star Square is easy to combine with other nearby landmarks including the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Osu Castle.

Black Star Square at a Glance

Also known as: Independence Square
Location: Accra, Ghana
Completed: 1961
Commissioned by: Dr Kwame Nkrumah
Capacity: Approximately 30,000 spectators
Known for: Independence Arch, Black Star Gate and national celebrations
Entrance: The open-air square can normally be visited without an admission fee

The square sits between 28th February Road and Accra’s southern coastline.

Why Was Black Star Square Built?

Black Star Square was commissioned by Kwame Nkrumah as a major public space for the newly independent Ghana.

Ghana gained independence from British colonial rule on 6 March 1957, with Nkrumah becoming the country’s first Prime Minister and later its first President. The square was subsequently completed in 1961.

Today it remains one of the country’s principal locations for national ceremonies, military and civic parades, festivals and major public gatherings.

Its most important recurring event is Ghana’s Independence Day celebration on 6 March.

What Can You See at Independence Square?

Three major monuments dominate the square and its immediate surroundings.

1. Independence Arch

The Independence Arch stands on the southern side of the square with the Gulf of Guinea behind it. It forms one of the most recognisable views at Black Star Square and commemorates Ghana’s independence struggle.

2. Black Star Gate

On the opposite side is the imposing Black Star Gate, topped by the five-pointed Black Star of Africa.

The monument carries the inscriptions “AD 1957” and “Freedom and Justice”, referencing the year Ghana became independent and the country’s national motto.

3. Memorial of the Unknown Soldier

Facing the Independence Arch is the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier, commemorating Ghanaian soldiers who lost their lives serving their country.

How Big is Black Star Square?

The scale is difficult to appreciate until you’re actually standing inside it.

Large spectator stands surround the square with a combined seating capacity of approximately 30,000 people, allowing it to host major national ceremonies and public events.

This is one reason the square continues to be used for large gatherings, concerts and national celebrations.

Events at Black Star Square

Black Star Square is most closely associated with Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations, including ceremonial and military parades.

It has also been used for concerts, festivals and other major public events. The square has, for example, formed part of the Chale Wote Street Art Festival, with Black Star Square and Osu Castle used as key festival sites.

Because it remains a working national ceremonial space, access can change when a major event or official ceremony is taking place.

Is Black Star Square Free to Visit?

Entrance Fee: It is Free to enter the open-air square and walk around the monuments, including the Independence Arch and Black Star Gate.Access to the Gate Roof:

Going up into the Black Star Gate structure is also free, though visitors commonly offer a small tip to the onsite guide or security personnel who assists or takes photos

Where is Black Star Square?

Black Star Square is in central Accra, between 28th February Road and the coastline, close to Accra Sports Stadium and other historic sites.

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is approximately 1km west of Independence Square, making the two attractions particularly easy to combine in the same visit.

Use the directions option on this page for navigation.

What Else Can You Visit Nearby?

If you’re exploring Ghana’s history in central Accra, you can combine Black Star Square with:

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park – museum, mausoleum and park dedicated to Ghana’s first President.

Osu Castle (Christiansborg Castle) – another important site in Ghana’s political and colonial history.

Accra Arts Centre – useful for Ghanaian crafts, textiles and souvenirs.

Planning to Visit Black Star Square?

Allow time to walk around the square, see the Independence Arch and Black Star Gate and take in the scale of the site.

Planning to visit Black Star Square? Save it to My Trip in the viewGhana app and start building your Accra itinerary. Keep the attractions, restaurants and events you want to experience in one place, and get reminders as your plans come up.