Adelaide Gaol

The Adelaide Gaol is one of the oldest remaining colonial buildings in Adelaide and a site of immense historical significance. Operating from 1841 until 1988, it was the state’s first official prison and housed approximately 300,000 prisoners during its 147-year history. Today, the Gaol serves as a museum where visitors can step back in time and explore the harsh realities of life behind bars in the 19th and 20th centuries. The site offers a range of experiences, including self-guided tours, historical guided tours, and popular evening ghost tours for those interested in the paranormal. Visitors can view the cells, the hanging tower, and the exercise yards while learning about the inmates’ stories and the evolution of the penal system in South Australia. As a window into the state’s criminal justice history, the Adelaide Gaol provides a somber yet fascinating educational experience that preserves the architectural and social heritage of a bygone era.