Uncovering the Mysteries of the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site
Ghana is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site is one of the absolutely must-visits. A lot of history, legends and mysteries circle around this site. It is a historical landmark on the grounds of the Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi. Here Okomfo Anokye himself planted the legendary Okomfo Anokye Sword in a rock.
History and Legend
Okomfo Anokye (also known as Kwame Agyei, Kotowbere, or Tsala) was a powerful priest of the Ashanti Empire in the 17th century. He played an important role in the expansion of the Empire. According to legend, the priest Okomfo Anokye caused the stool to descend from the sky and land on the lap of the first Asante King, Osei Tutu. The Golden Stool is the royal throne of kings of the Ashanti people. It is the ultimate symbol of power in Asante culture. Traditionally, such seats symbolise leadership. Asante people believe that the Golden Stool holds the spirit of the entire Asante nation – ‘living and yet to be born’.
The Sword site is the exact place where the Golden Stool fell from the sky onto the lap of Osei Tutu. Okomfo Anokye pushed the sword into the ground and predicted that this place will become a healing place for millions of people. He also pronounced that no one will ever be able to remove the sword. There have been countless attempts to remove the sword. So far, no success. Even Muhammad Ali tried his luck in 1964, which was not much of a success either. Ashantis strongly believe that if anyone pulled the sword out of the ground, the Kingdom would collapse. To this day the Asante king regularly comes to pay his respects at this sacred site. The Okomfo Anokye Sword remains as one of the great wonders of the world.
A tour of the site explains a lot about Ashanti Kingdom and more about how it all started. Visitors should also keep in mind that the site is sacred, and should dress appropriately out of respect for local customs.
Don’t forget to visit other attractions nearby! Visit vibrant markets in Kumasi, where visitors can find traditional crafts and textile or museums. The Ashanti Cultural Centre and the Manhyia Palace Museum offer further insights into Ashanti culture and history. For those looking for more activities in nature, the nearby Lake Bosomtwe offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the city. Beautiful lush forests and hills surround the presumably meteor-created lake.
Comments