Osu Castle (Christianborg Castle)
Brief Information
Built by the Danes in the 17th century, Osu Castle, also known as Christianborg Castle, stands as one of Ghana’s most historic landmarks. It served as the seat of government until 2013 and remains a symbol of Ghana’s colonial past and political evolution.
Perched on the shores of the Gulf of Guinea, the castle has witnessed centuries of trade, diplomacy, and power transitions—from Danish to Norwegian, Portuguese, and finally British control.
The History
The Osu Castle, also known as Fort Christiansborg, is one of Ghana’s most iconic historical landmarks, located in the coastal suburb of Osu in Accra. The castle was originally built by Danish traders in the 1660s as a trading post for gold and ivory, but it soon became a key center in the transatlantic slave trade. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands several times, falling under the control of the Portuguese, the British, and briefly the local Ga people.
During British colonial rule, Osu Castle served as the seat of government for the Gold Coast and later became the official residence of Ghana’s presidents after independence in 1957. It remained the seat of government until 2013 when the presidential offices were moved to the Jubilee House. The castle’s architecture reflects a blend of European and local influences, with thick stone walls, arched corridors, and views overlooking the Gulf of Guinea.
Today, Osu Castle stands as a symbol of Ghana’s colonial past and political evolution. Although access to the castle was restricted for many years, it has recently been opened to the public as a museum and heritage site. Visitors can explore its courtyards, dungeons, and halls while learning about its complex history that spans trade, slavery, and governance.
Ghanaian Nationals
| Category | Entrance Free |
|---|---|
|
Adults |
25 Cedis |
|
Children |
5 Cedis |
|
Tertiary Students |
15 Cedis |
|
JHS/SHS |
10 Cedis |
Non Ghanaians
| Category | Entrance Free |
|---|---|
|
Adults |
25 Cedis |
|
Children |
5 Cedis |
|
Tertiary Students |
15 Cedis |
|
JHS/SHS |
10 Cedis |
Inside the Castle
Inside Osu Castle, visitors can explore its historic dungeons, old offices, and narrow corridors that once housed colonial governors and later Ghanaian presidents. The castle also features a courtyard overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering a stark contrast between its serene views and the painful memories of the slave trade. Exhibits and guided tours now showcase artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Ghana’s colonial and political past.
Getting There
-
By Car: Osu Castle is about 20–30 minutes from Kotoka International Airport, depending on traffic. You can drive there via Independence Avenue or Labadi Road. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber offer convenient and affordable options, dropping you right at the castle gate.
-
By Foot: If you’re already in the Osu area, especially around Oxford Street, you can easily walk to the castle in about 10 minutes. The route is safe during the day and passes by several local shops and cafes.
-
By Public Transport: From central Accra or Labadi, take a trotro heading toward Osu and ask to stop near Osu Presbyterian Church or Oxford Street. From there, it’s a short walk down to the castle along the coastal road.
Near By Attractions
James Town
Black Star Square
