The Christiansborg Archaeological Heritage Project (CAHP) is a groundbreaking initiative based at Osu Castle (Christiansborg Castle) in Accra. Established to uncover and preserve the layered histories of the site, the project combines archaeology, heritage education, and community engagement. It sheds light on Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, colonial history, and the everyday lives of people who lived and worked around the castle.
Archaeological Excavations: Ongoing digs at Osu Castle reveal artifacts spanning centuries, from Danish colonial rule to Ghana’s independence era.
Community Heritage Projects: Local residents collaborate with archaeologists to document oral histories, family legacies, and ancestral homes.
Art & Storytelling: Murals and public art in Osu depict warriors, scholars, fishermen, and artisans, connecting heritage to living culture.
Educational Outreach: The CAHP runs workshops, exhibitions, and a community library to make heritage accessible to schools and visitors.
Osu Castle, originally built by the Danes in the 17th century, became a hub of the Danish transatlantic slave trade.
The CAHP, active for nearly a decade, has unearthed artifacts that tell stories of enslaved Africans, colonial administrators, and local communities.
The project is the first of its kind in Ghana to integrate archaeology with community-led development, ensuring heritage preservation benefits local people.
Location: Osu, Accra (Christiansborg Castle grounds)
Access: Entry is typically via guided tours arranged through the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB).
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours, when tours are less crowded and lighting is ideal for photography.
Nearby Attractions: Independence Square, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Osu Oxford Street.
Wear comfortable shoes if joining a heritage walk around Osu.
Ask about temporary exhibitions or community events linked to the project.
Photography may be restricted in certain areas of Osu Castle—check with guides.
Highlights & Collections
Archaeological Excavations: Ongoing digs at Osu Castle reveal artifacts spanning centuries, from Danish colonial rule to Ghana’s independence era.
Community Heritage Projects: Local residents collaborate with archaeologists to document oral histories, family legacies, and ancestral homes.
Art & Storytelling: Murals and public art in Osu depict warriors, scholars, fishermen, and artisans, connecting heritage to living culture.
Educational Outreach: The CAHP runs workshops, exhibitions, and a community library to make heritage accessible to schools and visitors.
History & Significance
Osu Castle, originally built by the Danes in the 17th century, became a hub of the Danish transatlantic slave trade.
The CAHP, active for nearly a decade, has unearthed artifacts that tell stories of enslaved Africans, colonial administrators, and local communities.
The project is the first of its kind in Ghana to integrate archaeology with community-led development, ensuring heritage preservation benefits local people.
Visitor Information
Location: Osu, Accra (Christiansborg Castle grounds)
Access: Entry is typically via guided tours arranged through the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB).
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours, when tours are less crowded and lighting is ideal for photography.
Nearby Attractions: Independence Square, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Osu Oxford Street.
Practical Tips
Wear comfortable shoes if joining a heritage walk around Osu.
Ask about temporary exhibitions or community events linked to the project.
Photography may be restricted in certain areas of Osu Castle—check with guides.
