Hotels used to be prisons

From the historic prison, Loewengraben, Liberty and Malmaison have been renovated into resting and relaxing places with almost intact architecture. Here are 5 typical hotels rebuilt from prisons, where visitors can experience the life of prisoners and learn history.

Loewengraben, Switzerland

A renovated guest room of Loewengraben.

Located in the old town of Lucerne, Loewengraben has been a prison since 1862 but in 1999, this place became a hotel. The price here is quite reasonable for backpackers who want to save money.

Loewengraben is also suitable to organize seminars with full equipment. The room is not too large because the hotel retains the old cell structure with iron bars and thick walls.

Old Mount Gambier Gaol, Australia

Located in the city of Mount Gambier, South Australia state, Old Mount Gambier Gaol was used as a prison in the years 1866 - 1995. Later, this place transformed into a classic style rest, for travelers Dust calendar or curious people.

Visitors can not only eat but also learn about the prison's history through places such as chapels, libraries, accommodations. All are renovated into a common area for rest and relaxation. In addition, Old Mount Gambier Gaol has 3 more courtyards and public kitchens for guests to freely eat or cook.

Liberty, USA

Liberty Hotel is located in Boston, Massachusetts, famous for a prison named Charles Street Jail, operating since 1851. After more than 120 years, prisoners here protested due to poor living conditions complained. They were later transferred to the new prison, Suffolk County Jail.

Modern décor doesn't change much of the old character of Charles Street Jail.

Later, Charles Street Jail was renovated into a hotel by a group of designers, architects, historians and environmental experts. The ancient features of this historic building, such as cells, windows and walkways, are preserved. Modern design adds space in the hotel, creating a balance between old and new.

Karosta Prison Liepaja, Latvia

Located in the city of Liepaja, Karosta Prison Liepaja claims to be a "friendly, no fireplace, uncomfortable but open year-round" hotel. Constructed as a prison in 1905, the building still retains the torture area with full equipment and tools. To experience a day as a prisoner, you can register at Karosta Prison.

Malmaison, England

The hotel is located in the heart of Oxford Castle, a medieval building nearly 1,000 years old. Most of the castle was destroyed during the war, in the 1800s. After that, the rest was converted into a prison.

Guest dining in Malmaison.

In 1996, Malmaison was no longer a place to detain prisoners but became a hotel. The cells were transformed into rooms for the guests, and the torture area was renovated into an office.