Attraction
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
The memorial park where Kwame Nkrumah declared Ghana's independence, holding the marble mausoleum of Ghana's first president and his wife, plus a museum and library.
Black Star Square (Independence Square)
Ghana's monumental parade ground, completed in 1961, with the Independence Arch, the Black Star Gate and stands for about 30,000 people beside Independence Avenue.
At a glance
- Type
- Public square and monument
- Area
- Osu / Victoriaborg, Accra, Ghana
Good to know
- Free to view
- Independence Arch
- Black Star Gate
- Open-air
Why we recommend it
Black Star Square, officially Independence Square, is the ceremonial heart of Ghana. Commissioned by Kwame Nkrumah to celebrate independence, it was completed in 1961 in time for the state visit of Queen Elizabeth II, and it was designed by the Ghanaian architect Theo Lawson. The scale is the first thing that strikes visitors: a vast open parade ground framed by grandstands that seat about 30,000 people.
The square's monuments are the main things to see. The Black Star Gate, also called the Black Star Monument, carries the five-pointed star that appears on Ghana's flag and has become a symbol of the country and of African independence more widely. Facing it is the Independence Arch, and nearby stands a statue of a soldier honouring Ghanaians who died in the struggle for independence, along with the Liberation Day Monument. Each 6 March the square hosts the Independence Day parade, and it is also used for military parades, national gatherings and festivals.
For most visitors this is a quick but worthwhile stop rather than a long visit. Photographers come for the strong geometry of the arch and gate, especially in the softer light of early morning or late afternoon, when the heat is less intense. History lovers will find that it pairs naturally with the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, which borders the square area, so you can see the place where independence was declared and the monument built to celebrate it on the same outing. Families will find plenty of open space, though there is little shade.
There is no formal visitor centre. Access to parts of the square can be restricted during rehearsals, official events and national celebrations, and security staff may ask you to keep to certain areas, so follow their instructions. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, as the open concrete reflects a lot of heat in the middle of the day. Allow 30 to 45 minutes unless an event is taking place.
The square sits on Independence Avenue, beside the Accra Sports Stadium and within easy reach of the Osu district. A taxi or ride-hailing car from Osu takes only a few minutes, and the National Theatre and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park are both nearby, making it simple to group these sights into one morning in central Accra.
Black Star Square (Independence Square) FAQs
Is Black Star Square free to visit?
There is no admission charge to view the square and its monuments from the public areas.
When was Black Star Square built?
It was completed in 1961, in time for Queen Elizabeth II's state visit.
Who designed it?
The square was designed by the Ghanaian architect Theo Lawson.
What monuments are there?
The Black Star Gate, the Independence Arch, the Liberation Day Monument and a statue of a soldier honouring those who died for independence.
How big is it?
The grandstands seat about 30,000 people.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and the heat less intense. On 6 March the square hosts the Independence Day parade.
Can access be restricted?
Yes. Parts of the square may be closed during rehearsals, official events and national celebrations.
What is nearby?
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the Accra Sports Stadium and the National Theatre are all close by.