Black Star Gate
A Gate to freedom
About Black Star Gate
Black Star Gate, also known as the Black Star Monument, is a prominent feature within Black Star Square (also called Independence Square) in Accra, Ghana. Situated in the heart of the square, the monument is a large white arch topped with a striking black five-pointed star — a powerful symbol of African freedom and unity.
It bears the iconic inscription "AD 1957" and "Freedom and Justice," commemorating the year Ghana gained independence from British colonial rule. The Black Star Gate stands as a proud national emblem and is often the centerpiece of national events, military parades, and official ceremonies. Together with the Independence Arch and other memorial elements, it forms part of the wider Independence Square, a vast public space bordered by the Accra Sports Stadium and the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum. The gate not only serves as a symbolic gateway to Ghana’s sovereignty but also as a popular landmark that attracts both locals and visitors alike.
Things to See and Do
- Walk beneath the iconic Black Star Gate and feel the powerful symbolism of Ghana’s independence.
- Read the historic inscription "AD 1957 – Freedom and Justice", a reminder of the country’s liberation from colonial rule.
- Capture stunning photos of the monument crowned by the bold black star, a symbol of African unity.
- Take in panoramic views of Black Star Square from the base of the gate, especially during quiet hours.
