People & Places: King Tackie Tawiah Royal Mausoleum

The King Tackie Tawiah Royal Mausoleum, situated at Tesano, Accra, is a revered site holding deep cultural and spiritual importance for the Ga people. 

This historic location, known as 'mansteman' (royal land), serves as the ancestral burial ground for Ga traditional rulers and royals of the Teiko Tsuru lineage.

The area at Tesano, originally called 'shia yen no' (white sand), is the resting place of past kings and royals, including the children of Nii Tackie Tawiah I, the first King of the Ga State.

The royal cemetery was relocated to Tesano from Adabraka, an area now occupied by Accra Brewery Ltd, in the 18th century.

Today, the Ga Mantse and his elders visit the royal mausoleum annually to perform traditional rites in honour of departed royals.

This yearly pilgrimage, known as 'Mamεε' ("a visit to the ancestral burial grounds"), is a royal tradition reserved exclusively for the King.

It takes place exactly one week after the celebration of the Ga Homowo Festival.

During the Maamε ritual, the King visits the tombs of past kings and royals to sprinkle kpokpoi, pour libation with schnapps and water, and offer intercessory prayers for blessings, protection, good health, strength and prosperity for the Ga people.

The Maamε ritual is important because it allows the Ga Mantse to honour departed royals and seek their blessings and protection.

According to Palace Storyteller Nii Kwardey Ntreh, the custom is performed in remembrance of past kings and royals who are believed to still be present among the living.

The King Tackie Tawiah Royal Mausoleum is a crucial part of Ga cultural heritage and the Maamε ritual is a significant tradition that strengthens the bond between the living and the dead.

By honouring their ancestors, the Ga people aim to secure their blessings and protection, fostering spiritual renewal and prosperity for the community.