Book on castles and forts launched

Accra (Greater Accra), 14th May ?99 -

A book titled "Castles and Forts of Ghana" was launched in Accra on Thursday with high expectations of the boost it would give to the country's tourism promotion drive.

The 105-page book, with 120 photographs and engravings and two maps, was published by Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB). It was outdoored at a news conference in Accra.

The book in two parts, a general introduction, and case studies of three castles and 12 selected forts, discusses their past and present uses.

With the text written by Professor Kwesi J. Anquandah of the Department of Archaeology, University of Ghana, and pictures by Mr Thierry Secretan, a French photo-journalist, the book touches on the types of architecture of the castles and forts which date between 1482 and 1868.

Mr Fritz Baffour, Chairman of GMMB, said proceeds from the sale of the book would be used to support activities of GMMB and preservation of the country's cultural heritage.

He said it is high time Ghanaians realise that culture is not only to be admired but also developed to make money for the country.

Prof. Anquandah said Ghana has 80 castles, forts and lodgings all of which have local and international flavour.

"The Europeans who built them, the Africans who were sent through them into slavery and Ghanaians on whose soil they are situated all have a stake in it".

Mr Secretan observed that the castles and forts are emotional places for both Europeans and African-Americans adding that "they have become symbolic 'Gates of Return' to Africans in the Diaspora who are coming back to their roots".