Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Pennsauken, NJ, is a historic prison that operated from 1829 to 1971. It was designed to hold prisoners in solitary confinement, with the belief that this would lead to their spiritual reflection and ultimately, rehabilitation. The prison's unique radial design, with cell blocks extending like spokes from a central hub, became the model for over 300 prisons around the world.

Today, Eastern State Penitentiary is a popular tourist destination and museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the harsh realities of prison life in the 19th and 20th centuries. The former cells have been preserved, showcasing the deteriorating conditions that prisoners lived in, including cramped spaces, lack of natural light, and 23-hours of isolation per day. Visitors can also learn about the prison's famous inmates, such as gangster Al Capone, and the various escape attempts that took place within its walls.

Eastern State Penitentiary holds great historical significance as one of the first prisons in the United States to implement solitary confinement as a form of punishment. The prison's system of isolation was controversial and eventually fell out of favor, leading to its closure in 1971. However, the penitentiary's influence can still be seen in modern prison systems around the world. Its eerie atmosphere and rich history make it a must-visit for tourists and an educational experience for all ages.

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