Elmina

Elmina is a coastal town in the Central Region of Ghana, located on the Atlantic coast to the west of Cape Coast. It serves as the administrative capital of the Komenda Edina Eguafo Abirem Municipal District. The town is best known for Elmina Castle, originally built by the Portuguese in 1482 as São Jorge da Mina. It is among the oldest European structures in sub-Saharan Africa and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle played a central role in the early Atlantic slave trade and subsequently changed hands to the Dutch (who renamed it Fort Elmina) and later to the British. The fortress’ dungeons and coastal fortifications are a focal point for historical interpretation and museum displays.

In contemporary times, Elmina has a fishing port and serves as a local market and service center for surrounding communities. Tourism tied to the castle and coastal landscapes is an important activity, with local guides, accommodations, and cultural programming contributing to the economy. The surrounding area includes mangroves and lagoons such as Benya Lagoon, which support fishing and biodiversity. Road connections link Elmina with Cape Coast and other towns; transportation includes buses and taxis. The town reflects Ghana’s coastal heritage and ongoing local development in education, commerce, and culture.