Independence Square and Arch
Black Star Square.
The vast area around Independence Square is enclosed by modernist, Eastern European-influenced stands, large enough to seat 30,000 people. The whole thing was built under President Kwame Nkrumah to host huge events and military marches, but it’s usually empty save for a few soldiers sheltering from the sun. The only times the square tends to come alive these days are at commercial events such as concerts and fashion shows, which take place sporadically throughout the year. Even if there’s not much happening, however, it’s worth wandering around just to marvel at the audacity of it all.
Independence Arch, at the centre of the busy adjacent roundabout, is also known as Black Star Square, thanks to the motif that dominates the arch. The sculpture is a nod to Ghana’s proud status as the ‘Black Star of Africa’ – the country was an inspiration to other African nations vying for independence, and the Flame of African Liberation, lit by Nkrumah, still burns strongly nearby. Please note that there are (seemingly unwritten) laws about camera use here – we strongly recommend that you don’t take photographs of any part of the area.
Details
Address:
High Street
Accra
