Fort Metal Cross, also known as Fort Dixcove, is a historic fortification located in Dixcove, in the Western Region of Ghana. Fort Metal Cross was constructed by the British in the late 17th century, around 1693, as a trading post and military fortification.
It was strategically positioned along the coast to protect British trading interests in the area, particularly in the lucrative trade of gold, ivory, and other resources. The fort’s name is derived from the metal cross that was reportedly placed atop the structure, serving as a navigational aid for ships along the coastline. Fort Metal Cross is a small fortification built from stone and brick, featuring thick walls, bastions, and cannons aimed towards the sea.
Like many other forts and castles along the Ghanaian coastline, the fort played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade and European colonialism. It served as a trading post where enslaved Africans were held before being transported across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas. The fort also played a role in the European competition for control over the region’s resources and trade routes.
Today, it stands as a historical landmark and tourist attraction in Dixcove, Western Region. Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds and learn about its history through guided tours and interpretive displays. Efforts have been made to preserve and maintain Fort Metal Cross as part of Ghana’s cultural heritage, with ongoing conservation initiatives and educational programs.
Fort Metal Cross is an important reminder of Ghana’s complex history and the impact of colonialism and the slave trade on the country and the wider African continent. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the Ghanaian people and their ongoing efforts towards remembrance, reconciliation, and cultural preservation.
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