It was like a scene straight out of the Black Panther, minus the vibranium and superpowers of course. That’s how I felt walking into the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, Ghana. Being in the heart of Ashanti culture was like being in my own little slice of Wakanda.
It was Saturday, May 18, 2024. And, the museum had just reopened, after the Asantehene’s (that’s the Ashanti King) 74th birthday and his Silver Jubilee (marking 25 years of his ascension to the throne). Auspicious timing for my visit!
And here’s the kicker: 35 artifacts that had been taken by the British Army over 150 years ago were finally being returned and put on display.
We’re talking about a collection that includes a ceremonial cap dripping in gold, a state sword, and a shiny peace pipes among other cool items.
Witnessing these artifacts make their triumphant return home was a goosebumps moment.
Seriously, check out this ceremonial cap, if this doesn’t scream ‘African royalty’, I don’t know what does
The Manhyia Palace Museum is a bit like stepping back in time. Located in the heart of the Ashanti Region in Kumasi, Ghana, it’s part of the actual palace where the Asantehene lives. The place tells the story of the Ashanti Kingdom, from its days before British colonization right up to present. And, it’s certainly a story worth hearing
Most of us Black Americans have heard about or read about the Ashanti people. But it’s another thing to stand right in the middle of the Ashanti culture, feeling like, in some small way, you’re a part of it too.
