By Ewoenam Kpodo
Ho, July 04, GNA- A landmark once known as Anloland’s highest seat of traditional justice is set for transformation.
The proposed Torkor Atorlia Museum and Tourist Centre will convert the historic “Fifth Landing Stage” (Torkor Atorlia) at Anloga into a heritage, research, and tourism hub that tells the story of the Anlo people to the world.
The complex with a proposed iconic sculpture will house: a museum – curated artifacts in designed cabinets, with guides trained to explain their significance; a library – books on Anlo and Ewe history, including works sourced from international historians; conference hall – for lectures, student programmes, and cultural events; and ancillary facilities – offices, toilets, stores, and covered walkways.
Mr Silas Aidam, Secretary, Torkor Atorlia Project Committee in an interview with Ghana News Agency said Torkor Atorlia was where Anlo Dukor (State) dealt with the gravest offences under customary law and instead of letting that history fade, the project would preserve it with dignity.
He said the centre at the historic site, which had remained largely preserved with little encroachment, would have key features including landscaped gardens, a motorable road behind the ongoing AstroTurf, and a car park leading to a reception terrace.
Mr Aidam said the design would take visitors on a journey through Anlo history, starting at a modern reception complex with a museum, library, conference hall, and offices, ending at “Ʋeliƒo,” the sacred pond used in post-judgment cleansing rituals.
He added that a major landmark would be a long corridor lined with sculpted busts of past Awoamefias (Anlo rulers), with guided tours on their reigns and achievements.
The project committee secretary disclosed that the land had already being surveyed by Dr John Amaglo, with the architectural design done by Mr Leo Amedume while quantities were being done by Mr Carl Banini, a renowned quantity surveyor.
Mr Aidam noted that the committee was working behind the scene to soon inaugurate the project and have all sons and daughters of Anloland contribute their quota towards its realisation, saying the centre will be “more than a project”- a legacy to preserve Anlo history, values, and identity, while welcoming visitors to experience one of Ghana’s foremost cultural treasures.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Ewoenam Kpodo, GNA