Cape Coast, Administrative center in Central Region, Ghana
Cape Coast is a city on the Gulf of Guinea in central Ghana with beaches extending for many kilometers and traditional fishing boats anchored around the central harbor. The city is shaped by its waterfront location and the presence of historic structures that define its skyline.
Cape Coast Castle was built in the 17th century and changed hands among European powers while becoming a principal hub of the trans-Atlantic slave trade until 1814. The harbor played a central role in one of history's darkest chapters.
The Fetu Afahye festival draws thousands of people each September for traditional ceremonies, music performances, and street parades through the city. These celebrations show the living customs of the local community and shape daily life here for weeks.
The central market opens at sunrise and closes at sunset daily, with hundreds of vendor stalls offering fresh fish, local produce, and handmade crafts. Visitors should arrive early to find the best selection and avoid the afternoon crowds.
The University of Cape Coast houses a botanical garden with about three hundred plant species from the regional coastal forests of West Africa. This tucked-away spot offers a quiet escape from the city bustle and showcases the natural diversity of the region.
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