Fort Saint Anthony, Portuguese colonial fort in Axim, Ghana
Fort Saint Anthony is a triangular fortification situated on elevated coastal terrain above the Ankobra River in Ghana. The structure features sturdy defensive walls and interior wooden panels that reflect its use across multiple historical periods.
Portuguese traders built the fortress in 1515 after an earlier trading post from 1503 faced resistance from local communities. The Dutch later took control and eventually the British administered it until the mid-19th century.
The fort reflects the marks of three European powers that occupied and modified it over centuries. Visitors can observe how these different periods coexist in the building's architecture and interior design today.
The fort is open to visitors daily and sits within walking distance of local roads leading from the town of Axim. Wear comfortable shoes as the ground is uneven and staircases to upper levels can be steep.
A notable feature is the deep trench cut into rock that encircles the entire structure, dating to an era when such engineering significantly enhanced defensive capability. This carefully constructed protective ditch demonstrates the skill and engineering knowledge of its original builders.
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