Fort Bullen, Colonial fort at River Gambia estuary, Gambia.
Fort Bullen is a fortress standing on the banks of the Gambia River, featuring a rectangular layout with four circular bastions and thick brick walls. Cannons are positioned along the riverside to command views of the water passage.
British forces built this fort in 1826 to stop French and Portuguese traders from continuing the illegal slave trade in the region. It represents an early military commitment to enforcing the abolition of slavery in West Africa.
The fort stands as part of the Kunta Kinteh Island UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing colonial military presence and anti-slavery efforts in West Africa.
The site is open daily for visits with guided tours offered to explore the fortification in detail. Wear light clothing and bring water, as the riverside location provides little shade.
During World War II, the 1st Coast Battery reactivated this abandoned fort as a defensive position against potential threats from nearby Senegal. This military role shows how the structure remained strategically important even after losing its original purpose.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
