Melbourne Old Gaol

Melbourne Old Gaol

It’s rare for a prison to become a tourist attraction in other international cities, but Melbourne has such a unique one. The Melbourne Old Gaol is located at the intersection of Victoria Parade, Russell Street, and Franklin Street, very close to the city center. It was built in 1841 and officially opened in 1845. The old gaol consists of five buildings, of which only one remaining blackened bluestone structure now serves as a distinctive museum open to visitors.

The Melbourne Old Gaol is the oldest surviving Victorian-era prison and was considered one of the most advanced and complete prisons of its time, originally used to house violent and hardened criminals. Step back in time, walk along the path leading to the gallows in the 19th-century prison, experience what it felt like to be arrested by modern police, or try the tension of standing trial in court. The oldest prison, the famous Magistrates' Court, and the former city watchhouse police station are all located on Russell Street. Since the 1840s, this has been the center of crime, law, and order in Melbourne.

This impressive site once held most of Australia’s most notorious criminals, such as the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and the notorious gangster Squizzy Taylor. With just one ticket to the “Crime & Justice” experience at the Melbourne Old Gaol, you can explore the past, present, and future of Australia’s criminal and justice system.

Old Melbourne Gaol

Must-visit reason: The oldest surviving Victorian-era prison

Continent: Oceania

Country/Region: Australia

State/Province: Victoria

City: Melbourne