Prepare to be captivated by the shimmering allure of the Asante head, a resplendent masterpiece hailing from the heartland of Ghana. Nestled within the prestigious Wallace Museum in London, this solid gold artifact stands as a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of ancient African civilizations. In fact, it proudly holds the title of being the largest golden treasure ever discovered in Africa, rivaling even the treasures of ancient Egypt.
As we delve into the intriguing history of the Akan people, we embark upon a remarkable journey of cultural fusion and ancient migrations. According to renowned historian Robert Graves, the Akan people trace their lineage to an extraordinary exodus of Libyo-Berbers, distant cousins to the pre-Hellenic population of Greece, from the magnificent Sahara desert oasis. It was in the fabled city of Timbuctoo, where they encountered the Niger River Negroes and forged powerful unions through intermarriage. The Akan's southward odyssey eventually led them to the vibrant lands we now know as modern-day Ghana, solidifying their place as a vibrant and resilient civilization.
Delving even further into the annals of history, we stumble upon the intriguing research of Eva L. E. Meyerowitz, who astoundingly classifies Akan culture and civilization as Libyo-Phoenician or Carthaginian, rather than the commonly perceived "Negro-African" origin. Such revelations challenge conventional narratives, inviting us to explore the intricate connections between ancient civilizations and the rich tapestry of human history.
Drawing inspiration from the intrepid voyages of Hanno, a Carthaginian explorer of the fifth century BC, we unravel the mysteries of his naval expeditions along the wondrous western coast of Africa. Scholars have meticulously scrutinized Hanno's periplus, seeking to trace his footsteps and identify the remarkable places he encountered. Surprisingly, some theories suggest that Hanno's audacious expedition may have extended as far south as the enchanting lands of Gabon, a testament to the boundless ambition and navigational prowess of these ancient seafarers.
Immerse yourself in the evocative words that open Hanno's epic tale:
"This is the report of the periplus of Hanno, king of the Carthaginians, into the Libyan areas of the earth beyond the Pillars of Hercules, which he dedicated in the sanctuary of Kronos." With a flotilla of 60 majestic ships and an astonishing 30,000 souls on board, Hanno set out to establish thriving cities along the African coast. His enduring legacy? The foundation of one city after another, each a testament to the indomitable spirit of exploration and the quest for knowledge.
Scholars and historians alike have fervently debated the true purpose of Hanno's voyage. Some argue that it was driven by the desire to establish Carthaginian or 'Libyophoenician' outposts, as part of a grand imperial design. Others posit that the lucrative gold trade, a cornerstone of the Carthaginian empire, may have been the primary impetus behind their ambitious exploration of West Africa. The allure of gold, as ancient as humanity itself, has beckoned explorers throughout the ages, and it's not hard to imagine the alluring gleam of this precious metal enticing Hanno and his crew into uncharted territories.
Now, dear reader, as we navigate the captivating tale of the Asante head and the awe-inspiring exploits of Hanno, we invite you to join us on a journey of discovery. Together, let us unlock the mysteries of the past, explore the vibrant cultures that shaped our world, and forge connections that transcend time. Join our ever-growing community
This is amazing tales and history of African civilisations iterations is very interesting.