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.

It's the museum inside Harrigan Centennial Hall. It's small, but mighty. The historical society has…read moredone a great job in preserving Sitka's history. I never really thought much about how the Russian Orthodox Church influenced Alaska until walking through many of the historical sights in town. This museum ties it all together with artifacts recovered from the area (including shipwrecks), as well as donated items from Alaskan native & pioneer families that were passed down from generations. The captain's journal from the USS Ossipee bears witness to the Alaska Purchase ceremony. The otter gut parka (or kamleika) was another interesting find. The Alaskan native people invented & designed these waterproof outer garments for hunting and fishing. The ship's bell that is believed to be from a Russian American vessel (called the "Neva") caught my attention as well. There is an admission fee of $5. I'd say it's worth it. The older woman at the entrance was so friendly and cheerful. She made me laugh a couple of times just hearing the stories she'd tell to other tourists. She apparently sees brown bears around her house daily. No need for a tour... Lol! What a cool lady! Ask her anything, and I assure you that it will brighten up your day.

I am so glad I stumbled on this place. I learned a lot from this place, and the staff, especially…read morethe older female employees, was so nice and helpful. Don't miss this place it's only $5 and very worth it!! If this review helped you at all, please mark as helpful and follow me for more around the world.

Nice spot to walk around. Covered gazebo and there's fire pits. Saw people fishing from the beachread more