prison cells tour

• North America
• 7 Prison Museums You Can...

Prison Museums You Can Visit Across The US

With over 100,000 prisons and jails around the globe, historic jail cells and prison museums have become a huge draw for tourists, and the US is no different – the states has over a dozen historic prisons to discover. From Alcatraz Island’s remote location off the shores of San Francisco to Eastern State Penitentiary’s famous haunted cells, learn about the histories and tales that characterize the past of these seven U.S. prisons.

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Alcatraz, California

Alcatraz is reputed to have housed some of the most dangerous prisoners of the 20th century, including mobster Al Capone and gangster Alvin Karpowicz ; referred to as ‘the prison system’s prison,’ Alcatraz received the most difficult inmates. Built on an island off the coast of San Francisco, ‘The Rock,’ as it was nicknamed, made for a challenging escape, although over a dozen attempts were made – none of which were successful. Alcatraz was originally built in the 1850s as a U.S. military fortress and housed military prisoners until 1933, when it was renovated as a maximum-security prison. Alcatraz could hold 260–275 prisoners during its time of operation, less than one percent of the entire federal inmate population, but officially closed its doors in 1963 due to its high operating costs.

Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennsylvania

Eastern State Penitentiary (ESP) was part of a controversial movement in the early 1800s that advocated the use of solitary confinement and hard labor to alter the behavior of inmates. Designed in a ‘radial-style’ floor plan, ESP was one of the most costly buildings of its time, with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and 253 cells, each with its own toilet, running water, and heat. The layout and practices at ESP were so popular that they were replicated in over 300 other prisons worldwide; by the early 1930s, however, the prison abandoned the solitary confinement system, replacing it with other severe forms of punishment. Operating from 1829–1971, the prison held some of the nation’s most infamous criminals, including Al Capone (before his time at Alcatraz) and Willie Sutton ; today, it’s considered one of the most haunted buildings in the world.

Sing Sing Prison, New York

Home to the first electric chair (‘Old Sparky’), the famous Babe Ruth baseball game , and some of the nation’s most notorious criminals, like Albert Fish and David Berkowitz , Sing Sing is one of America’s most famous prisons. Built by 100 prisoners from another local prison, Sing Sing was one of the most impressive prisons of its kind upon its completion in 1828. Originally modeled after Captain Elam Lynds’ ‘silent system’ – the use of ‘hard work, community activity and silent reflection’ to alter inmate behavior – the prison eventually moved to a more modern approach that used sports to teach discipline, introduced by Warden Lewis Lawes . While the prison still holds more than 1,500 inmates today, plans for turning the prison’s 1939 power plant into a 22,000-square-foot museum are in the making. Visit the museum in the meantime, located in The Ossining Historical Society Museum .

Ohio State Reformatory, Ohio

The Ohio State Reformatory , also known as the Mansfield Reformatory, was constructed between 1886 and 1910 to act as an ‘intermediate penitentiary’, or the half-way point between the Boys Industrial School and the Ohio Penitentiary. In the mid-1800s, the land was originally used as Civil War training grounds; in 1884, plans for the new prison were approved by the state. Designed by Levi T. Scofield, the reformatory featured Victorian and Romanesque architectural styles, believed to encourage inmates to get in touch with their spiritual side. In 1990, the Boyd Consent Decree deemed the prison overcrowded and unsanitary – over 200 inmates had died during its operation – forcing it to close its doors. Today, the prison operates as a museum, and has been included in many famous films like The Shawshank Redemption ( 1994).

West Virginia State Penitentiary, West Virginia

After separating from Virginia at the height of the Civil War, West Virginia lacked many public institutions, including a prison. After repeated denials, the West Virginia Legislature finally purchased the land for the West Virginia State Penitentiary in 1886. Completed using prison labor in 1887, the prison’s design featured stone walls and Gothic architectural elements like turrets and battlements, modeled after a prison in Illinois , and included a hospital and chapel, adding a school and library later on. There were other services, like a carpentry shop and bakery, that provided jobs for inmates, making the prison self-sufficient. Despite its good conditions at the turn of the century, the prison went into a state of decline: there were over 36 homicides, a prison break in 1979, and a riot in 1986. The prison was ordered to shut down by the Supreme Court in 1986; it officially closed its doors in 1995. It was listed as one of the US Department of Justice’s Top Ten Most Violent Correctional Facilities and played host to 94 executions from 1899–1959: 85 by hanging and nine by electric chair. It is also considered one of America’s most haunted prisons.

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Old Idaho Penitentiary, Idaho

Old Idaho Penitentiary , once known as the Territorial Prison, was constructed in 1872 as a single-cell house; over the years, the prison expanded to include several buildings, as well as a 17-foot-high wall surrounding the complex. Over 101 years, until it closed in 1973, the Old Idaho Penitentiary received over 13,000 inmates, 215 of them women, and housed infamous convicts like Harry Orchard and Lyda ‘Lady Bluebeard’ Southard . The prison, however, was known for having unsuitable living conditions, and many inmates responded to these conditions with riots in 1971 and 1973. After its closing in 1973, the prison was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Yuma Territorial Prison, Arizona

Yuma Territorial Prison , now a historic state park , opened its doors in 1876, and its first inmates were seven men who were responsible for constructing the prison. During its 33 years of operation, the prison housed 3,069 prisoners, 29 of them women, and despite its infamous reputation, it is said to have had humane conditions – prisoners made hand-crafted items that were sold at Sunday public markets and they received regular medical attention; the prison also had one of the first public libraries in the territory, where prisoners learned how to read and write. No executions took place here, but over 26 inmates escaped and over 100 died (most from tuberculosis). By the turn of the century, the prison was overcrowded, so a new facility was built in Florence, Arizona , and the prison officially ceased operations in 1909.

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Shawshank Prison

Historic ohio state reformatory, shawshank museum & bus tours.

Y our Shawshank Trail begins at the famous Historic Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio. This building is one of the top five castle resembling structures in the country! The Reformatory is home to the world’s tallest freestanding steel cell block, consisting of six tiers, 12 ranges, and 600 cells. Major motion pictures have been filmed here including Tango and Cash , Harry and Walter Go To New York , Air Force One , Escape Plan: The Extractors, Judas and the Black Messiah,  and The Shawshank Redemption .  Notable YouTube videos filmed at the Reformatory include TrunkFest and Mr. Beast . (millions of views!), as well as Buzzfeed and the Science Channel .

The building lives as a grand architectural achievement with large granite pillars and elegant construction within over 250,000 square feet. With its variety of architectural styles like Victorian Gothic, Richardsonian Romanesque, and Queen Anne, The Ohio State Reformatory is something you have to see to believe!

Do time in the Shawshank Museum where you’ll immerse yourself in props, set pieces, costumes, and other treasures involved in the movie. And bring home souvenirs from the Museum Store, so you can relive your visit to the cherished movie site. Included in the admission price. As screenwriter and director of The Shawshank Redemption, Frank Darabont collected many posters and original artwork related to Shawshank. His collection now graces the hallways at OSR in the Frank and Rae Darabont Gallery Shawshank Collection.

Be sure to check out Brooks’ hotel room, Andy’s office, the Warden’s office, the fresh fish yellow line, the tunnel Andy crawled through to freedom, and so much more.  We don’t want to give away all the surprises!

Shawshank Bus Tours :  Tour the Shawshank Trail in style! Visit 10 local filming locations in 3 hours while being led by a professional guide. Included is a full 90 minute guided Hollywood Meets History walking tour of the Ohio State Reformatory. Total tour time – approximately 4.5 hours. If you are interested in booking the bus for a private group, please reach out to Ashleigh Ramey at [email protected] .

The Ohio State Reformatory

100 Reformatory Rd., Mansfield, OH 44905 OhioStateReformatory.org (419) 522-2644

Hours:  Click HERE

Self-Guided Tours

$5 additional for audio wand.

Guided Tours

Shawshank Trail Fun Fact

The Ohio State Reformatory starred in the movie as Maine’s fictional Shawshank State Prison. Do time in the Shawshank Museum: five rooms of props, costumes, set pieces, and other treasures from the film. Also see the safe in Warden Norton’s office, Red’s Parole Board room, Andy’s escape tunnels, and more. You can even take a photo with your favorite Shawshank character from the movie!

City, State, Zip

A Visit to Robben Island, the Brutal Prison that Held Mandela, Is Haunting and Inspiring

To visit the brutal prison that held Mandela is haunting, yet inspiring

Scott Johnson

The busload of tourists on Robben Island grew quiet as Yasien Mohamed, our 63-year-old guide, gestured to a bleak limestone quarry on the side of the road. It was here, he said, that Nelson Mandela toiled virtually every day for 13 years, digging up rock, some of which paved the road we were driving on. The sun was so relentless, the quarry so bright and dusty, that Mandela was stricken with “snow blindness” that damaged his eyes.

Nevertheless, Mandela and other heroes of South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement, such as Govan Mbeki and Walter Sisulu, used their time in this quarry to teach each other literature, philosophy and political theory, among other things. “This campus may not look like the fancy university campuses you have in America,” Mohamed said, “but this limestone quarry was one of the great universities of the world.”

Robben Island, a desolate outcropping five miles offshore, is a testament to courage and fortitude in the face of brutality, a must-see for any visitor to South Africa. Tours leave Cape Town four times a day, and the trip includes a bus tour of the island and a visit to the prison.

The island was first used as a political prison in the mid-1600s; Dutch settlers sent slaves, convicts and indigenous Khoikhoi people who refused to bend to colonial rule. In 1846 the island was turned into a leper colony. From 1961 to 1991, a maximum-security prison here held enemies of apartheid. In 1997, three years after apartheid fell, the prison was turned into the Robben Island Museum.

The most powerful part of the tour is a visit to Mandela’s cell, a 7-by-9-foot room where a bulb burned day and night over his head for the 18 years he was jailed here, beginning in 1964. As Mandela recalled in Long Walk to Freedom , “I could walk the length of my cell in three paces. When I lay down, I could feel the wall with my feet and my head grazed the concrete at the other side.”

Many guides are themselves former prisoners, and they speak openly about their lives inside one of the world’s most notorious gulags. Our prison guide, named Zozo, said he arrived on the island in 1977 and underwent severe beatings, hunger and solitary confinement before he was released in 1982. As Zozo stood in the room he once shared with other inmates, he recalled a vital lesson: “Our leader, Nelson Mandela, taught us not to take revenge on our enemies. And because of this today we are free, free, free.”

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VIP Doge's Palace Secret Passages Tour

• Gain special access to areas of the Doge's Palace not usually open to the public—including torture chambers and Casanova’s prison cell!
• After your secret passages tour, you'll skip notoriously long general access lines to get inside the Doge's Palace for a special tour by our local guide.
• With a small group of just 20 guests, your journey will be intimate, while privileged access means you won’t waste any time waiting in line.

Preview the experience

Tour description, with special access, you'll see more of the doge's palace than most other visitors..

Away from the grandiose halls and lavish apartments of the Doge's Palace lies a darker side to the space. On this Doge's Palace secret passages tour, you'll step off the beaten path and into the shadows, discovering the secrets and spaces that the Venetian doges themselves tried to keep hidden.

You’ll meet your guide near the Doge’s Palace and head straight inside (no waiting in line for you) where a palace guard will unlock a secret door, allowing you to step into the hidden world of political Venice. Navigate the hidden prison cells reserved for VIP prisoners, torture chambers, secret government archives and top echelon offices. Even back in the day, most Venetians didn’t know this space existed, so it’s hard to overstate just how privileged our secret passages tour is. With their antique cabinets and creaky floors these rooms will truly make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

By exploring the secret passages, you get away from the crowds elsewhere in the Doge’s Palace and walk in the footsteps of Venice’s most colorful characters. Our favorite? Casanova, that legendary romantic—yes, he did exist! And, as you’ll learn, he deserves all of the lore. Against all odds, he was able to escape his cell here in the palace—a cell you’ll get to see exclusively in the secret passages tour.

See secret passages and stunning ballrooms at the Palazzo Ducale.

Few visitors ever have the opportunity to walk the passages you’ve just walked, yet the Doge’s Palace is still one of the top sights of Venice. See what all the fuss is about when you step back into general access areas of the palace to explore the waiting rooms, council halls and ballrooms of the palace. While our secret passages tour is full of dark secrets and hidden rooms, the general access part of this tour is all pomp and grandeur, offering glimpses of Venice’s finest works of art.

You’ll discover the public face of the Republic of Venice with your expert guide, from the Doge’s own lavish apartments to the Hall of the Great Council. Admire beautiful and dramatic paintings by Veronese and Tintoretto, and explore the magnificent halls that demonstrate the prestige of the Venetian Republic.

Small groups, special access, and local guides make for an unforgettable tour.

Throughout your tour, you’ll travel in small groups of only 20 people or less, so you’ll find that your guide is always easy to hear and engage with. Ask all the questions you want—our guides are locals who spend a lot of time in the Doge’s Palace, so you’ll find it hard to catch them out. They’re passionate about the history and art of Venice, and about sharing that passion with you, so they’d love to hear your queries.

With privileged entrance, you'll save time that would have otherwise been spent waiting in line, while special access allows you to go far beyond the usual visitor experience for an adventure into the Doge’s Palace secret passages. Leave no stone unturned or door unopened on this complete, comprehensive, and thoroughly VIP exploration of the history and art of Venice!

Please note that due to Doge's Palace rules, we cannot accommodate children under six years old in the Secret Passages.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, may 02, 2024.

Francesca was absolutely the best tour guide we’ve ever had, she was very knowledgeable and funny at the same time. After the Doges Palace tour she went above and beyond to help us get skip the line tickets for Saint Marks Basilica after our tour that we booked thru Walks got canceled and it was too late to book another tour.

Fascinating to walk the secret tunnels and view what other people would normally not see, for example Casanova’s cell’s and the stories behind his imprisonment, are they true or is he just a great story teller?

Apr 28, 2024

The Secret Passages of the Doges Palace in Venice was a great tour and our tour guide, Mat, was very good. A couple of things to note: there are a lot of stairs and narrow staircases and the audio equipment does not work well in the dungeon portion of the tour due to the winding passages and thick walls. If you are not at the front of the group near the guide, you miss a portion of the commentary. Still enjoyed the tour very much.

Oct 15, 2023

Our tour was outstanding. Our guide, Maria Terese was so knowledgeable and funny. Highly recommend.

Tour guid walked too fast and did not keep group together very well

Know before you book

Make it a perfect day.

Spend a perfect day in Venice exploring iconic local attractions and tasting the best cicchetti in the city on an evening food tour.

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Alcatraz island citadel virtual tour.

Alcatraz Island is located off the coast of San Francisco, California. Many people are unaware that beneath the prison block on the island sits the foundation of a U.S. Army fortification built in the 1850s. Once four stories tall and surrounded by a dry moat, the fort was razed to the foundation in 1909 to make way for the current prison building. The new cellhouse, built in 1912, was constructed directly over the first level of the Civil War-era citadel. The “dungeon,” as it is now called, is what remains of the original 1859 fort. From servant’s quarters, to storage to solitary confinement cells, this space was repurposed numerous times throughout the many eras of Alcatraz Island.

Project Information

Heritage Documentation Programs (HDP) documented the Citadel during summer 2016. The Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) field team was HABS architect Paul Davidson and summer architectural intern Avidan Fernandez. They used a combination of laser scanning and photogrammetry to record the site. Avidan Fernandez, a summer intern from Cal Poly Pomona, produced the animation. The project was sponsored by a Cultural Resources Preservation Program Grant administered by National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT) , Golden Gate National Recreation Area , and HDP. The prison exterior and cellblock data was provided by the Texas A&M University College of Architecture. The student internship position was funded jointly through the National Park Service Youth Programs and the Hispanic Access Foundation's Latino Heritage Internship Program designed to engage the next generation of Latino conservation stewards

Panoramic tour of the Citadel at Alcatraz Island

Interactive 3D point cloud viewer

Animated video of 3D point cloud data

Archival documentation at the Library of Congress

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Alcatraz Island , Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Last updated: January 18, 2024

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Discover the Historic Reality of Venetian Justice | Doge's Palace Prisons

What are the doge’s palace prisons.

Step into the dark yet captivating world of the Doge's Palace Prisons! Hidden beneath the opulent chambers of Venice's powerful Doge, these historic cells were home to some of Italy's most notorious criminals and political prisoners.  From the legendary Casanova to the revolutionary Garibaldi, the tales of the inmates will captivate you. Discover the harsh conditions and secrets of this haunting prison that still echoes with the ghosts of its past. Satiate your thirst for some historical adventure  and explore the depths of the Doge's Palace Prisons!

What's Makes the Doge's Palace Prisons so Special?

• Learn About the Lives of Famous Prisoners : From the infamous lover Giacomo Casanova to the revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi , the prison has held many famous inmates over the centuries. Discover their untold stories!
• Step into History: The Doge's Palace Prisons are an integral part of Venice's history for centuries. Step into the past and experience the harsh conditions of the prisoners.
• Explore the Architecture : Their architecture is a stark contrast to the lavish décor above. Marvel at the engineering and design that went into creating these underground cells.
• Connect with the City's Culture : The Doge's Palace Prisons offer a glimpse into the city's culture and way of life, and the justice system during the Venetian Republic.

Doge’s Palace Prison Timings

Doge’s Palace Prisons is open to visitors every day of the week. While the opening hours for Prisons are the same as the Doge's Palace, there are certain time slots for Doge’s Palace Prisons & Secret Itineraries Tour for an optimal experience.

The tour lasts for about 1.25 hours and starts from:

8:30 AM - Sundays

9:00 AM - All days of the week

Language : English, Italian, and French.

Highlights of Doge's Palace Prisons

The Prison Cells

The highlight of the Doge's Palace Prisons is, of course, the prison cells themselves. Visitors can explore the dark and narrow cells, many of which are covered in graffiti left by former inmates.

The Bridge of Sighs

One of the most iconic features of the Doge's Palace Prisons is this bridge connecting the interrogation rooms in the palace to the prison cells. The bridge gets its name from the sighs of prisoners who, upon crossing it, caught their last glimpse of the beautiful city before being locked away.

The History

The Doge's Palace Prisons are steeped in history, and visitors can learn about the various prisoners who were held there, including famous figures like Giacomo Casanova and Giuseppe Garibaldi.

The Architecture

The prison cells are located on the lower levels of the Doge's Palace and offer a stark contrast to the opulence of the palace's upper levels. The architecture of the prison cells, with their narrow passages and small cells, is fascinating to explore.

Incredible views

Despite the grim surroundings, visitors to the Doge's Palace Prisons can enjoy poetically stunning views of the surrounding canals and rooftops from some of the prison cell windows.

History of Doge’s Palace Prisons 

The Doge's Palace Prisons in Venice are a significant historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the harsh reality of the Venetian justice system during the republic's rule. The prison cells, located in the basement of the Doge's Palace, held political prisoners and common criminals. The conditions were harsh, with overcrowding, limited access to food and sanitation, and frequent executions. 

Despite these conditions, some prisoners managed to escape, including Giacomo Casanova. The prison is now a museum, offering an opportunity to explore the darker side of Venice's past and learn about the lives of famous prisoners.

Book Doge's Palace Tickets

Frequently asked questions about doge's palace prisons.

Doge's Palace Prisons were a complex of prisons located in the Doge's Palace in Venice, Italy. They were used to house prisoners of the Venetian Republic from the 16th to the 18th century.

Yes, you can visit Doge's Palace Prisons today as part of a tour of the Doge's Palace museum. The prisons are located on the ground floor of the palace and are accessible to visitors.

Life for prisoners in Doge's Palace Prisons was harsh and often brutal. They were kept in small cells with little light and ventilation, and were often subjected to physical and psychological abuse.

The prisoners in Doge's Palace Prisons were mostly political prisoners, including those accused of treason, espionage, and conspiracy against the state. However, common criminals were also housed in the prisons.

Many famous prisoners were held in Doge's Palace Prisons, including Giacomo Casanova, the legendary lover and adventurer; Marco Polo, the Venetian merchant and explorer; and Silvio Pellico, the Italian poet and writer.

Doge's Palace Prisons were closed in 1922, after almost four centuries of use. The building was then converted into a museum, which opened to the public in 1923.

Doge's Palace Prisons are significant for their historical and cultural importance, as they offer insight into the political and social climate of Venice during the Venetian Republic. They also represent the harsh realities of prison life in the past.

You can get these tickets on Doge's Palace Tickets .

Unfortunately, the Doge's Palace Prisons are not entirely wheelchair accessible. The prisons are located in the basement of the palace, and there are several flights of stairs that need to be navigated to access them. There are certain areas that are indeed wheelchair accessible. It's recommended to inquire beforehand.

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What Is the Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” Tour in Venice?

Sean Finelli Last Updated: November 14, 2022

Heading to Venice and have your eye on the Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” tour, but not exactly sure what it is? This article explains what it is and how it’s different from our other tours of Doge’s Palace.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Venice? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our  guide to Venice  for more planning resources, our  top Doge’s Palace tours  for a memorable trip, and how to visit the Doge’s Palace.

Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” Tour

On our Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” tour, you’ll discover a darker side of Venice. You’ll see the Doge’s Palace’s hidden torture chambers and even Casanova’s jail cell. See all of the areas of the palace that are not open to the public and even cross the infamous Bridge of Sighs .

If you’re looking for a unique Venice experience, the “Prisons and Tyranny” tour is your best option. You’ll see Venice’s dark side, learn about the city’s brutal legal system, and visit sections of the palace that are restricted to the general public.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Doge’s Palace Guide for more resources.

The Doge’s Palace

Your tour begins outside of the Doge’s Palace, where you’ll meet your guide. You’ll learn about the history of the palace, St. Mark’s Square and the city of Venice. Admire the Venetian Gothic façade of The Doge’s Palace before skipping the line to enter. Located next to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace was once home to the Doge during Venice’s period as a republic.  

Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” Tour Itinerary

The inside of the Doge’s Palace features meticulously-designed marble floors, fireplaces, and friezes. You’ll see the beautiful courtyard occupying the space between the palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.

After experiencing the courtyard’s splendor, you’ll enter through a secret door to access restricted areas and begin your Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” tour .

Doge’s Palace Prison Cells and Offices

Inside the restricted areas of the Doge’s Palace, you’ll visit the small damp detention cells called pozzi . Your guide will show you the many drawings and writing on the wall that tells the story of those held there.

You’ll then take a small stairway to visit two nearby rooms that housed members of Venice’s Council of Ten, the city’s governing body from 1310-1797. Afterward, your tour guide will take you to see the Office of the Great Chancellor, the keeper of Venice’s General Archives.

Palace Torture Chambers and Casanova’s Cell

Your Doge’s Palace “Prisons and Tyranny” tour will continue to the torture chamber. Nicknamed the Chamber of Torment, this room is directly connected to the palace prisons.

Your guide will tell you about the methods of torture implemented during the interrogation process. Following the visit to the torture chamber, you’ll walk next door and see the prison cells called piombi .

The piombi were meant for political prisoners and those with shorter sentences. You’ll learn about the only prisoner to escape from the Doge’s Palace, Giacomo Casanova. Your guide will take you to visit his cell and tell you the story of his daring escape.

The Infamous Bridge of Sighs

The Doge’s Palace Bridge of Sighs, also known as Ponte dei Sospiri, towers over the Rio di Palazzo and links the palace interrogation chamber to its prison cells. Prisoners were led across the bridge’s covered interior to what were sometimes lifelong sentences. The bridge’s small windows with stone bars gave prisoners their last glimpse of the city of Venice.

Conclude in St. Mark’s Square

Your tour concludes with the option to remain inside the palace and explore on your own or return to St. Mark’s Square with the group. Before departing from the group, be sure to ask your guide where the best places to eat in Venice are. Our Venice guides know the ins and outs of the Floating City.

For an unforgettable Venice experience, be sure to check out our other Venice tours . We offer a hidden Venice food tour and a Venice highlights tour with a gondola ride.

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About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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A Visit To El Chapo's Prison Cell (Now That He's Gone)

Carrie Kahn

At Mexico's Altiplano prison, cell 20 was occupied by drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. He escaped Saturday night via a tunnel in his shower stall. Eduardo Verdugo/AP hide caption

At Mexico's Altiplano prison, cell 20 was occupied by drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. He escaped Saturday night via a tunnel in his shower stall.

The opening of the tunnel was dug into the floor of El Chapo's cell in an area that was a blind spot for the video camera monitoring his cell. Eduardo Verdugo/AP hide caption

The opening of the tunnel was dug into the floor of El Chapo's cell in an area that was a blind spot for the video camera monitoring his cell.

This screen grab of video from a security camera, dated July 11 and released by Mexico's National Security Commission, shows the man Mexican authorities say is Guzman inside his cell at the Altiplano maximum security prison, looking at the shower floor shortly before escaping through a tunnel below. AP hide caption

This screen grab of video from a security camera, dated July 11 and released by Mexico's National Security Commission, shows the man Mexican authorities say is Guzman inside his cell at the Altiplano maximum security prison, looking at the shower floor shortly before escaping through a tunnel below.

The Two-Way

Watch: surveillance video shows 'el chapo's' escape, latin america, a look inside el chapo's prison escape through a tunnel.

Editor's Note: Since Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman's dramatic prison break on Saturday night, Mexico has distributed 100,000 fliers and offered a $4 million reward for the nation's top fugitive. Officials also took reporters to visit the cell at the Altiplano prison from which Guzman escaped. NPR's Carrie Kahn was among them.

We were taken through the front gate. It is a huge compound with hundreds of employees. It took us quite a long time to get to Guzman's cell. We had to pass through more than 20 locked doors, and at each door there are several guards. There are surveillance cameras. We had to have our IDs right up in our faces and at each stop, you had to turn and face up to a camera or had to pass slowly in front of a guard.

We went down several passageways, up and down staircases and finally down one long hallway in what's called the "special prison section," where we reached cell No. 20 — Guzman's cell.

It's a 60-square-foot cell. You have to go through two more doors and gates to get to it. There's one video camera that monitors the cell in the corner in the back, and then at the other end of the cell, there is a short concrete wall out of view of the camera. It came up to my chest.

The wall is to provide privacy for the prisoner. But as we all know, it actually provided an advantage, a blind spot, where Guzman was able to go through the floor and out to freedom.

NPR's Mexico City correspondent Carrie Kahn sketched a rough map showing how El Chapo escaped, based on information from Mexico's National Security Commissioner, Monte Alejandro Rubido, in a press conference on July 12. Carrie Kahn/NPR hide caption

NPR's Mexico City correspondent Carrie Kahn sketched a rough map showing how El Chapo escaped, based on information from Mexico's National Security Commissioner, Monte Alejandro Rubido, in a press conference on July 12.

There's a gaping hole, about 20 inches by 20 inches, cut right out of the shower floor.

It's just incredible — we walked through all this security, past all these guards. And then you're looking down this huge hole that heads straight down into the ground.

I was shaking my head the whole time in disbelief. The hole in the shower floor, the concrete slab that was cut out, was really not that thick at all. It was about 2 or 3 inches. There was no rebar. You'd think it would be much thicker.

Top Official Says Inside Help Was Likely In 'El Chapo' Escape

Authorities say the engineers who built the tunnel must have had the prison blueprints and GPS devices to reach that exact point. But what about all that noise from cutting through the rock and the soil right there to the shower?

There are so many people working in that prison, and no one heard anything?

The number of people who were probably bribed or in cahoots or just intimidated is just staggering.

Meanwhile, the fallout for Mexico's government is great. The U.S. cooperated to capture Guzman, and that cooperation is hugely strained at this time.

Mexicans vacillate between disbelief and making jokes about the escape to outright anger over the spectacle, the embarrassment, and showing the world the great weaknesses in their institutions. It's really painful to watch.

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Al Capone's Cell

They handed Capone the maximum sentence: one year in prison. 

Capone served seven months of that sentence in this cell. But while the Philadelphia courts tried to make an example of Chicago’s famous bootlegger, the officials at Eastern State Penitentiary were very nice to Al Capone.

Philadelphia newspapers noted that Capone's cell contained fine furniture, beautiful rugs, tasteful paintings, and a fancy radio. He liked to listen to waltzes in his cell. 

Capone’s arrest came at a time of escalating mob violence in Chicago, and he was often accused of hiding in prison intentionally. He spent thousands of dollars trying to get himself released, and he denied all his life that he came to Philadelphia to hide. 

Al Capone's Cell is accessible to all historic site visitors and is included with admission.

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 01 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy , materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes , offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development .

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy , with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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A century ago, Cyril Walker won the U.S. Open. He died years later, penniless in a prison cell

By dave skretta, associated press | updated - june 12, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. | posted - june 12, 2024 at 2:29 p.m..

Estimated read time: Less than a minute

A century ago, Cyril Walker bested Bobby Jones and many of golf's greatest players in the U.S. Open at Oakland Hills. It was the pinnacle of Walker's career, perhaps even his life. Because what followed was a downward spiral fueled by anger and alcohol, which ended in a New Jersey jail cell. The penniless former pro had sought refuge from the rain and cold, only to be found by a sergeant the next morning, dead of pneumonia. As the U.S. Open prepares to get underway Thursday at Pinehurst, it may be worth recalling a curious story of a most unexpected champion.

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Prisoner who starred in controversial Netflix series found dead in his cell aged 29

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John ‘Eastside’ McAllister, known for his appearance on Netflix ’s groundbreaking series Unlocked: A Jail Experiment, has died.

The 29-year-old was found unresponsive in his cell in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, on June 2nd and was pronounced dead after being transported to Jefferson Regional Medical Center at 8:50 am.

Authorities have ruled out suicide and foul play in his sudden passing, which tragically occurred just a month before his anticipated release from prison.

Unlocked: A Jail Experiment, which premiered in April on the streaming platform, delved into a fascinating social experiment.

The series aimed to create a more rehabilitative environment at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Center by offering more autonomy to 46 inmates there and tracking how it affected them.

While the inmates remained under guard supervision, they were given more freedom as to how they spent their days and were allowed to come and go from their cells.

McAllister, known by his fellow inmates as Eastside, left an impression on viewers with his positive attitude. He notably starting a tattoo business during the show’s filming in an effort to hone a skill and improve his circumstances.

McAllister was dealt a difficult hand in life and had innumerable run ins with the law, ultimately resulting in 14 jail terms. At the time of his death, he was serving time for offenses that included ten drug-related felonies, breaking and entering, theft, and unlawful firearm possession.

‘His sudden passing has left our family devastated,’ McAllister’s aunt, Melissa Regan, shared on a GoFundMe page set up to cover his memorial service costs.

The page has since seen an outpouring of support from fans and viewers who were touched by McAllister’s story.

Sheriff Eric Higgins of Pulaski County was the creator of the series. Speaking at Netflix’s Tudum Festival, Higgins elaborated on his mission to create a safer and more empowering facility. ‘How do we make the facility safer, and what can we do to still hold them accountable but empower them at the same time?’ he reflected.

During an NAACP Q&A session in Jacksonville, Florida, on April 10, Higgins expanded on his goals for the series.

‘I want to humanize people. I want to empower people to have an impact on their culture, environment, and community’ he stated, highlighting the need for rehabilitation and positive change within the American correctional system.

However, the series has not been without its critics. Justice of the Peace Phil Stowers of District 13 voiced his concerns to Fox 16, questioning the motivations behind turning the initiative into a reality TV show.

‘It’s not a question as to whether or not the sheriff has the ability to try something out of the box, something new in the jail. The questions and concerns are why did that have to turn into a reality TV show?’ Stowers remarked, reflecting a broader debate about the ethics of reality television in sensitive settings.

As the community grapples with McAllister’s untimely death, the impact of Unlocked: A Jail Experiment continues to spark conversations about incarceration, rehabilitation, and the power of media to influence public perception.

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McAllister’s legacy, marked by his journey towards redemption and his untimely demise, leaves a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding the criminal justice system and the individuals within it.

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