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Introduction During the colonial period, Ghana was known as the ‘gold coast’ because of its rich sources of gold and also ivory. In 1612, the Dutch States General had a fort built at Mouri. After the conquest of Brazil by the Dutch in 1630, the slave trade started and consequently many forts were built along the coast to transport the slaves. Because of competition between the European colonial countries, there were regular conflicts between the ‘owners’ of these forts. Remains of about 17 forts can still be seen but the most well known are Elmina and Cape Coast. The Dutch took Elmina from the Portuguese in 1637. A small fort (redoute) had been built nearby and the Dutch could attack it from there. The fort became the headquarters of the gold coast. A small town arose at Elmina and many residents of mixed blood settled there, having Dutch names as Bartels, Van Dijke en Vroom. In 1872 the Dutch handed over their possessions to the British. Nowadays both forts are tourist attractions. The town, where many Dutch style houses can be seen, and the cemetery have been restored with aid of the Dutch government. Read more on Ghana and cultural heritage cooperation at the Ghana section in the CIE resource centre
Map of Elmina Ghana, Atlas van der Hem MUTUAL CULTURAL HERITAGE PROGRAMME - GHANA CIE identifies partners in and for these priority countries and initiates local and international meetings with partners from The Netherlands and local priority countries. The outcome of the discussions and meetings are presented to the Dutch government to improve future cooperation policy. This formula is applicable to programs for many countries with mutual heritage. The CIE inventory for the Mutual Cultural Heritage Database has commenced in December 2011. The date of the Ghana Heritage Day will be announced in spring 2012. Fore more information and registration contact our office at info@heritage-activities.nl |
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