Accra - the capital of Ghana
One of the most popular African countries among tourists, of course, is Ghana. The capital of Ghana, Accra, has always attracted special attention. The main political, economic and cultural institutions of the country are located here, as well as world famous attractions..
Historical facts
Translated from the Akan language, the name of the capital means nothing more than «ants». Scientists believe that this name appeared due to the fact that in ancient times there were many anthills around the settlement. The first written records date back to the fifteenth century. It was then that the Akan tribes came to these places and founded a settlement here..
Until the seventeenth century, the settlement developed slowly and distinctively, until Europeans arrived here. Over time, Accra became a large center for the slave trade and a port. The Dutch, the French, the Swedes - they all immediately began to build fortresses and defensive walls in the city..
In the second half of the eighteenth century, after many years of confrontation, Ghana was nevertheless declared a colony of Britain. The colonialists made a number of changes in the life of the townspeople. For example, all new buildings were to be constructed of concrete and stone. Nevertheless, funds for the development of the capital were allocated without great enthusiasm. This continued until the beginning of the twentieth century..
After World War II, cottage areas for visiting Europeans began to be built in Accra. In the same period, the business district of the capital was laid and the construction of many administrative institutions began..
In 1957, Ghana officially became an independent state. Prime Minister Kwame Nkrumah immediately began to change the face of the city. Landmarks such as the State Palace were built; Independence Square; Organization of African Unity building. The coastal areas of the city began to develop. Today, the capital of the state has several interesting tourist sites, large museums and national theaters..
Capital climate
Accra is located on the shores of the Gulf of Guinea. The climate here is formed by the Volta River and the Atlantic Ocean. The rainy seasons are in spring and also in October. The rest of the time there is a dry tropical climate. Paradoxically, due to its geographical location, it is much hotter in winter than in summer..
