It's the very first historic site we visited in Sitka, Alaska. It's a good thing we got there early…read morewhile the weather was nice. It would end up raining later that morning. It's historic for many reasons. It was once a Tlinget fort until the Battle of Sitka. This is when it became Russian America. It's best known as being the site of the official land transfer ceremony. You know... the Alaska Purchase? It's when Russia sold Alaska to the United States in 1867 for 7.2 million dollars. The crew of the USS Ossipee led by Jefferson C. Davis (a Union Army General) was there to witness it all. It's also the site where they raised the first American flag in Alaska after becoming the 49th state. I don't think there was ever really a castle on it. It was just a strategic stronghold. I must say it's well worth a visit. It's not far from Harrigan Centennial Hall. The walk up the hill is very easy. There's also the option to use steps for part of the way, but we wanted to see all the flowers and shrubs along the way. It's a very green hill with beautiful views as you reach the top. This is also where you'll spot many bald eagles circling around the hill. I was too busy taking pictures of eagles when I should have been taking pictures of the flag with 49 stars. There's plenty of historical information and dedication plaques to read while taking in the view. It's also where you can get a great view of the John O'Connell Bridge. It was a great start to our relaxing day in Sitka. We walked around leisurely on our own schedule, and basically did what we wanted to do. It was refreshing! I'd do the same thing again. It was enjoyable.

Great little piece of history…read more There are two ways up the hill. We took the stairs up and the ramp down. Stairs are on one side of the castle and ramp on the bridge side. There are some good views from the top.

You can't ask for a more peaceful experience than this lush rainforest steeped in the Russian…read morehistory of Sitka. What to expect? Beautiful mossy headstones and a rainforest atmosphere all within two blocks of the Main Street in Sitka. I always find it so interesting to see how different cultures decorate and organize cemeteries and this spot is no exception. Fingers crossed you'll have the whole place to yourself because it's so peaceful and special.