Independence Square, Accra

Independence Square, also known as Black Star Square, is an iconic public space emblematic of Ghana's struggle for independence and its achievements as a nation. Located in the heart of Accra, the capital city, the square is an important site for national ceremonies and public gatherings.

The square was commissioned by Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana's first President, to commemorate the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1957. It is one of the largest city squares in the world and is bordered by the Gulf of Guinea to the south, providing a scenic backdrop for the monumental architecture and gatherings that take place there.

At the center of Independence Square stands the Independence Arch, featuring a Black Star, the heraldic symbol of Ghana and a representation of African emancipation from colonial powers. Flanked by two statues of soldiers, the arch serves as a tribute to the veterans of World War II and the unknown soldier who died for the country's freedom.

Adjacent to the square is the Memorial Park, which includes the eternal flame of African liberation, lit by Nkrumah himself during the independence celebrations. The vast open space of the square is capable of holding up to 30,000 people and is often the site for Independence Day parades, national festivals, and major concerts.

Visitors to Independence Square can experience the grandeur of Ghanaian political history and the architectural prowess that went into the square's construction. The square is accessible to the public, offering a place for reflection on the country's past and its aspirations for the future.