Fort Santo Antonio- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Fort Saint Anthony, built by the Portuguese in 1515 near Axim, Ghana, served as a key European trading post for gold and later the transatlantic slave trade. Captured by the Dutch in 1642, it became the westernmost fort in their Gold Coast holdings, functioning as a vital resupply point and administrative center. Unlike many Dutch forts, it remained occupied until 1872, when control transferred to the British. Its historical significance in European colonial trade led to its UNESCO World Heritage listing in 1979. Today, the Ghanaian state maintains the fort, allowing visitors to explore its well-preserved structure and learn about its role in regional commerce and colonial expansion. The Zamani Project's 3D documentation offers additional insights into its architectural details.