Introduction
A blend of modern and traditional Africa, Accra is the capital and largest city of the West African country of Ghana. Its name comes from the word nkran, which in the Akan language refers to the black ants that thrive in the area. Accra is situated on the Gulf of Guinea. It stretches for several miles along low cliffs. The rest of the city spreads northward over the Accra plains.
Places of interest
More than 300 years ago several European nations built castles and forts along Ghana's coast for the purpose of trade. Visitors to Accra can still see three of these trading stations. The city also is the site of Ghana's main government offices. Accra houses the national archives, the national museum, and the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences. Independence Arch, in Black Star Square, is used for parades.
Economy
Accra is the economic center of Ghana. It contains the head offices of all the country's large banks and trading firms. The city also has large open markets. Its main products are processed food, lumber, and textiles.
History
Members of the Ga tribe settled the area of present-day Accra in the 15th century. The first Europeans to settle in the region were the Portuguese, who arrived at about the same time. In the 17th century several other European countries constructed trading posts on the site. Their growth resulted in the formation of the city of Accra in 1877. By that time the British had gained control of the whole area, which became known as the colony of the Gold Coast. Accra was the capital of the colony and later of the country when it became independent in 1957. The modern city of Accra was carefully planned and laid out between 1920 and 1930. From that time its population grew rapidly. Population (2001 estimate), 1,551,200.
