Baranof Castle In Sitka Is The Historic Place Where Russia Signed Alaska Over To The US
Baranof Castle in Sitka, Alaska, is a historic site where the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia, offering panoramic views and rich history.
Baranof Castle is one of the most historically significant sites in Alaska. It is where the United States purchased Alaska from Russia! Located on Castle Hill in Sitka, this site is a National Historic Landmark and state park. There are incredible views of the city and Sitka Harbor!
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is an outdoor area to explore. There is no actual castle to enter.
Baranof Castle State Historic Site was originally known as Castle Hill.
It is a rocky outcrop rising 60 feet in the air above Sitka Harbor. The southern face is a sheer cliff, while the eastern slope is far more gentle and easier to ascend.
The site was originally a fortification of the Tlingit Native Alaskans.
After a six day battle with the Russians in 1804, the Tlingits ceded Castle Hill to the Russians. The Russians held it until 1867, when Alaska was purchased by United States of America.
It is also known as the American Flag-Raising Site.
The very first 49 star state flag was raised in this location in a secret, unofficial ceremony. This was done in 1959 as soon as Alaska was inducted as the 49th state.
Enjoy a well-maintained and fully accessible stairway.
You can travel up the hill to experience the views and history of the hill. It is a very lovely walk in the summertime, with plenty of flowers and a well-groomed area up top.
The top of the hill is flat and measures 120 feet long and 90 feet wide.
The area has a nice paved walking trail with interpretive panels about the history of the area. They even have a statue in the center, as well as engraved metal signs.
Exploring the entire area is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon.
The views alone make the trip worth it. Think about packing a picnic lunch and enjoying the site on a more leisurely time frame!
Even on cloudy days the panoramic views of the mountains and ocean are still arresting.
Address: Corner of Harbor Road and Lincoln Street, Sitka, AK. The attraction is open every day all year round. You won't want to miss the site of this important piece of history!
Have you had a chance to visit Baranof Castle? What did you think? Would you go back again? Let us know in the comments below!
If you're interested in Sitka, learn more about Why This One Little Town Is Alaska’s Best Kept Secret!
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