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Welcome to Alcatraz Island Historic Landmark!

Park History

Alcatraz Island is a National Historic Landmark located in San Francisco Bay, California. It's known for its rich history, including its time as a military fort, a federal prison, and a site of Indigenous activism. Today, it's a popular tourist destination managed by the National Park Service.

Military Fort:
Before becoming a prison, Alcatraz served as a military fort, with construction beginning in 1858.

Federal Penitentiary:
From 1934 to 1963, Alcatraz was a federal prison, housing some of America's most notorious criminals like Al Capone and Robert Stroud.

Indigenous Occupation:
In the late 1960s, Alcatraz was occupied by Indigenous activists as part of the American Indian Red Power movement, seeking to reclaim the island.

National Historic Landmark:
Alcatraz Island is now a National Historic Landmark, preserving its complex and multifaceted history.

Tourist Destination:
The island is a popular tourist site, attracting over 1.4 million visitors annually, who come to explore its history and enjoy the views.



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