BGC Senegal

 

Goree Island

Goree Island is a small island off the coast of Senegal in West Africa. It is about 2 km in length and 1 km in width and is located about 8 km from the capital city of Dakar. It is one of the most well-known tourist sites in the region and is known for its rich history and cultural significance.

History

Goree Island’s history dates back to the 15th century when it became a trading post for Europeans coming to West Africa. It later served as an important port of commerce between the African continent and Europe. In the 16th century, Goree Island became a prominent port for the Atlantic slave trade and was home to some of the largest slave-trading houses in the region. In 1969, Goree Island was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in recognition of its heavy cultural and historical significance.

Present Day

Today, Goree Island is a bustling tourist attraction. It has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike and is home to a wide variety of attractions such as:

    • The House of Slaves: This is a museum dedicated to the history of the trans-atlantic slave trade and its effects on Goree Island. It houses a number of original artifacts from the slave-trade and serves as a reminder of the suffering endured by those involved.

 

    • The Old Town: The Old Town is a beautiful and well-preserved area of the island that is home to a number of colonial-era buildings and structures. It’s an amazing place to wander around and explore the history of the island.

 

    • Goree Island Beach: This is a stunning stretch of beach located on the eastern side of the island. It’s the perfect place to go and relax, take in the fresh ocean air and take in some of the beautiful views.

 

Goree Island is a place like no other and is certainly worth checking out. It’s a place that holds a lot of historical and cultural importance and is an amazing place to explore and experience.