Stories and facts
A small chapel in Portugal dedicated to Saint Jago once stood in the location where Fort Coenraadsburg, also known as c, is now situated on a high hill across from St. George's Castle (Elmina Castle) in Ghana's Central Region. This fort serves as an excellent example of a community learning from its past. In 1637, the Dutch strategically placed heavy cannons on the hill, bombarding the weakest side of St. George's Castle, which was then under Portuguese control, ultimately leading to its surrender.
To safeguard St. George's Castle from similar tactics, the Dutch constructed a permanent fort in the 1660s. This fort, considered the oldest purely military structure on the Gold Coast, was primarily built for the defense and protection of St. George's Castle. It consisted solely of military quarters without any commercial warehouses. The fort's strongest bastions were aimed inland, as that was the most likely direction of an attack.
The fort remained well-garrisoned and was frequently used by the Dutch as a prison for European convicts and as a disciplinary institution for disobedient officers. In 1872, the English owners made some alterations, including adding a second floor to the main building, which allowed for civilian usage of the fort.
Over time, the fort has served various purposes, including being used as a prison, hospital, and rest house. Presently, it remains in relatively good condition and has been designated for conversion into an inn and restaurant.
Fort St. Jago serves as a remarkable tribute to the colonial era and the profound influence of European exploration and colonization on a global scale. With its historical importance, impressive architecture, and breathtaking setting, it becomes an essential destination for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and travellers eager to delve into the captivating history of the past. By exploring and embracing Fort St. Jago, visitors can gain profound insights into the intricate legacies and complexities of the colonial period that have shaped our contemporary world.
