The World’s First Penitentiary - Eastern Penitentiary, Philadelphia, PA

Eastern State was the world’s first true penitentiary, a building designed to inspire penitence - or true regret - in the heart of prisoners. It was operational from 1829 to 1971 and is renowned for its innovative architecture and penal philosophy. Its sky-lit cells held 85,000 men, women, and children over its long history, including bank robber ‘Slick Willie’ Sutton and ‘Scarface’ Al Capone. The prison stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks in surprising eerie beauty.

This is what caught my eye, I hope you enjoy!

Designed by architect John Haviland, this was one of the first penitentiaries in the world to implement the "Pennsylvania System," which reformed prisoners through isolation and reflection.

Some of the historical documentation posted throughout the prison.

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One of the two-story cell blocks

Originally, each cell was designed to house a single prisoner, promoting solitude and penitence.

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The remnants of the barber shop

One of the art installations in one of the cells

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The penitentiary had its own synagogue built in 1929, and it is believed to be the first prison synagogue in the United States. By 1925, there were 34 Jewish inmates incarcerated making them a small but growing presence in the larger prison population.

The prison was constructed in a radial design with cell blocks extending like spokes from a central hub, allowing guards to observe all cell blocks from a single location.

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A plaque listing the prisoners that served in the army and navy.

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Over time, Eastern State Penitentiary transitioned to a more conventional prison system, with multiple inmates housed in each cell.

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The recreation of Al Capone’s cell

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This penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world.

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Outside in the prison yard

The prison's architecture is imposing, with soaring stone walls and Gothic-style towers.

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The kitchen and bakery building built in 1903

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The guard tower looms over the correctional complex.

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The former greenhouse

Looking back through the main gate.

The main facade

After its closure in 1971, Eastern State Penitentiary fell into disrepair until it was eventually preserved as a historic site. Today, the site operates as a museum allowing you to explore its rich history, architecture, and the stories of the prisoners once confined within its walls. It also hosts various events and art exhibits.

What you should know:

• Check website for days and hours of operation, and any special events.

• There are restrooms.

• On the street parking is available, some metered. Be sure to check posted parking regulations signs.

• Tours are self-guided but there are staff members throughout the site to answer questions.

• You could spend a couple of hours here, depending on your level of interest.

• Tickets can be bought online or in person.

Location: 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19130

For more information: Eastern Penitentiary