Looted GOLD returned to Ghana but with STRINGS | Episode 5 | Manhyia Palace

Our journey begins at the Manhyia Palace, the official seat of the Asantehene—the King of the Ashanti people. Adinkra symbols adorn the palace walls—each symbol a visual proverb, conveying wisdom, values, and beliefs. These symbols are integral to Ashanti identity, reflecting a deep connection to ancestral teachings. Among the most poignant displays are the gold and silver artifacts looted during the Sagrenti War of 1874. These treasures, taken by British forces, were returned to Ghana in 2024 under a long-term loan agreement with the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. These treasures, once part of the Asante royal court, were taken by British forces during the Anglo-Ashanti wars. The artifacts, including a gold peace pipe, sword of state, and ceremonial badges, hold profound cultural and spiritual value for the Ashanti people. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II: "The return of these artifacts is the return of our spirit. They are not just objects; they are our history, our identity." 🦔 The Porcupine in Ashanti Culture To the Ashanti (or Asante) people, the porcupine is not just a creature—it’s a metaphor for strategic defense, resilience, and deterrence. Unlike a lion or an elephant, the porcupine is not a predator. Instead, it survives by being incredibly hard to defeat. Its quills are a warning: “Do not attack me—I am small, but deadly if provoked.” This aligns perfectly with the Ashanti's self-image—a proud, independent people who are peaceful until provoked, and formidable when defending themselves. 🛡️ The Ashanti Motto and the Porcupine The porcupine is so central to Ashanti identity that it is the emblem of the Asante nation. Their famous motto is: “Ɔpemsoɔ ɔko, ne nsa na ɛka no” "The porcupine fights from all angles." Or more famously adapted as: “Kill a thousand, and a thousand more will rise.” This is often associated with the Ashanti war ethos—particularly during times when the Ashanti resisted British colonization. It signifies that the Ashanti are resilient and inexhaustible—defeating one does not end the fight; in fact, it strengthens the resistance. 💪🏾 The Role of Women in Ashanti Power Structures Women aren’t just involved—they’re foundational. The Asantehemaa (Queen Mother) governs alongside the king and advises him on political, familial, and spiritual matters. There are also female chiefs, or "Ohemaa", who hold land, arbitrate disputes, and lead communities. The king’s eligibility is entirely dependent on the royal women’s lineage—his mother’s bloodline defines his right to rule. Nana Yaa Asantewaa is one of the most legendary and powerful figures in African history. At 65 years old, she defied colonial rule and led the Ashanti people into one of the most iconic resistances against the British Empire. Filmed May 2025 | Location: Kumasi Ghana | Episode 5 #ghana #ghanahistory #ashantiregion #familyvlog #asantehene #travelblogger #exploreghana #ghanatours #ghanatourism