Fort Metal Cross (Dixcove)
Built by the British between 1691–1697 on a promontory in Infuma (locally known as Dixcove), Fort Metal Cross was strategically placed atop a bluff overlooking the Atlantic ideal for controlling trade and coastline defense.
It endured sieges in the early 1700s by local forces aligned with rival European powers.
The fort earned this nickname due to broken promises of gold from the hinterland much of which turned out impure.
Passed to the Dutch in 1868 as part of a treaty and renamed “Metalen Kruis” (Metal Cross) a name later retained when the British re-assumed control in 1872.
Served multiple roles from trade post (gold, ivory, palm oil) and slave prison to police, postal station, and church gathering spot.
Recognized in 1979 as part of Ghana’s “Forts and Castles” grouping for its cultural significance.
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