Elmina Castle, located along the coast of Elmina in present-day Ghana, stands as one of the oldest European buildings in sub-Saharan Africa. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1482 and originally named São Jorge da Mina, the fortress served as a hub for the gold trade before becoming a central site in the transatlantic slave trade. With its stark whitewashed walls and imposing stone bastions, Elmina Castle reflects early European military architecture adapted to tropical conditions. The complex features dungeons that once held enslaved Africans in inhumane conditions, while European merchants and officials lived just above—an enduring symbol of colonial exploitation and cruelty. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands from Portuguese to Dutch and later to British control, each power leaving architectural and historical imprints. Today, Elmina Castle is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a powerful place of remembrance and education, reminding the world of the resilience of those who suffered and the lasting legacy of slavery."
Made in collaboration with the Clovernook Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. A portion of proceeds supports educational programs for blind and visually impaired youth.
Perfect for:
Educational tools for teachers and students
Office desk decor for history buffs
A unique gift for collectors of memorabilia and architectural model enthusiasts
This model was originally built for blind people to help them experience aspects of a building which otherwise cannot be touched
