Kingston Penitentiary

560 King St W, Kingston, ON K7L 4V7, Canada
Kingston Penitentiary: A Historic Prison in Canada.
Kingston Penitentiary is one of the oldest and most well-known prisons in Canada. It is located in Kingston, Ontario, on the shore of Lake Ontario. The prison was opened in 1835 and operated for almost 180 years before it closed in 2013. Over the years, it housed many of Canada’s most dangerous criminals.
The building is made of limestone and has high walls and heavy gates, giving it a strong and serious appearance. It was originally built to reform prisoners through hard work and discipline. In the early days, inmates worked in silence and followed strict rules. Later, the prison system changed, and more focus was given to rehabilitation and education.
Although the prison is no longer in use, it has become a popular tourist attraction. Today, people can take guided tours to see inside the historic prison. Visitors can explore the cell blocks, guard towers, and exercise yards. Tour guides, some of whom are former staff, share stories and explain how life was inside the prison walls. Kingston Penitentiary is also used in movies and TV shows because of its unique look and history. It is now considered a national historic site and a valuable part of Canada’s heritage.