Convicts were transferred from Isla de los Estados (Staten Island) to Ushuaia in 1906 to build this national prison, finished in 1920. The cells, designed for 380 inmates, held up to 800 before closing in 1947. Famous prisoners include illustrious author Ricardo Rojasand and Russian anarchist Simón Radowitzky. The depiction of penal life is intriguing, but information is only in Spanish.
Maritime exhibits provide a unique glimpse into the region’s history. Remains of the world’s narrowest-gauge freight train, which transported prisoners between town and work stations, sit in the courtyard. From December to March, guided tours (also in English) are at 11:30am and 4:30pm. If you can, take your tour with Horacio.
