Port Arthur

Port Arthur is one of the most important attractions in Tasmania. It is an ideal destination for those who would like to experience the highlights of Australian history in a mystic atmosphere.

The complete site was built as a prison in order to punish the British and Irish convicts who have commited the heaviest crimes. The landscape of the peninsula made it pretty easy for the guards to keep it under control. Port Arthur is connected to Tasmanian mainland with just a 30m wide Eaglehawk Neck. A few guards with a few weapons were enough to not to let anyone through. Furthermore, the rumours about the awesome sharks were spread around among the prisoners. Therefore, Port Arthur suddenly turned into the safest prison in the world.

Most of the prisoners worked at heavy industries like timber getting and many of them lost their lives due to the high number of accidents. Around 1000 people passed away on the island after 1833 within 44 years. This included not only the convicts but also the free people. The graveyard, where all these people have been resting in piece since then, is today called Isle of the Dead. Listen to the interesting story of the region at the guided walks. Guided Harbour Cruises are also available that also conduct incredible facts about the boys prison of Point Puer, ship building at Port Arthur and the amazing harbour in addition to spellbinding Isle of the Dead.

The role Port Arthur played at the end of the nineteenth century brought it a significant archeological value. Today, it is a historical site of over 100 hectares and 40 hectares, which is open to public, contains more than 30 buildings some of which are ruined, some restored. Among all of these, Penitentiary has a special place. It was initially a flour mill and granary and was converted into a prison in 1857 after Separate Prison started to operate in 1850. Some of the other buildings include a Church, Hospital, Dockyards, Officers Row and Commandant's Residence.

Port Arthur is just 100km south east of Hobart. Getting there by car is very easy and takes just 1,5 hours through the spectacular route from Hobart. Discovering the maximum out of Port Arthur takes around a full day.