Fort Metal Cross

Fort Metal Cross was built by the English between 1683 and 1692 above the natural harbour at Dixcove, one of the better anchorages on this stretch of coast, and it took its name from the metal crosses used in trade. It changed hands to the Dutch in 1868 in an exchange of coastal possessions and returned to Britain four years later. The structure survives well: whitewashed walls, corner bastions, cannon on the platforms and rooms around a courtyard, restored in part by a private lease arrangement in the 2000s. From the walls the view runs down over the fishing harbour where boats are built and beached. It is one of the components of the World Heritage inscription on Ghana's forts and castles.

What you actually see

• The whitewashed walls - the restored bastioned structure above the bay.
• Cannon platforms - the gun positions facing the anchorage.
• The courtyard rooms - the chambers around the interior.
• Dixcove harbour - the fishing bay and boatbuilding below.

When to go

November to March in the dry season. Mornings are best for light and heat. Visits are guided and the fort keeps daytime hours.

Honest expectations

The restoration has been partial and its history contested locally. Guiding varies in quality and depth. The road to Dixcove is rough in places. Fees and photography charges are sometimes negotiated on arrival.

Nearby

Busua beach lies a short distance east; Butre is beyond it.