Prisons are complicated places, and many of them around the globe were settings of historical events. Here are a few fascinating examples you might want to visit.
Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin
This 1796 prison was built as a model for a new design of a prison, replacing the traditional dark dungeon used up to that point. The prison was active until 1924, after the Irish Civil War, and opened for visitors as a museum in the 1980s. Guided tours will take you through the prison’s history and share the stories of some of Irish history’s famous prisoners.
Devil’s Island, French Guiana
Perhaps not the top of the list when planning a trip to this picturesque destination, the aptly nicknamed Devil’s Island (formally the penal colony of Cayenne) is a small island with an intensely interesting story. The penal colony was started by Emperor Napoleon III in 1852 and was active as one of the French government’s most notorious penal colonies until 1952.
Robben Island, South Africa
Robben Island was first used as a prison towards the end of the 17th century by Dutch settlers to South Africa. Mostly incarcerating political prisoners, this prison is a must-visit for any history buff with an interest in South Africa’s story, including a glimpse at Nelson Mandela’s cell.