Fort Port Arthur, located near the town of the same name on the shores of Carnavon Bay in Tasmania, has an impressive history. It was formerly a convict colony. Although partially ruined, the fort still retains the buildings of the former penal prison, hospital, mental hospital, and church.

Attractions
The ruined walls of the penal prison are the fort’s main attraction and one of its largest structures. They stand directly on the shore of the bay. Initially, starting in 1843, this building served as a flour mill, where chained prisoners turned the millstones. However, this method of production was inefficient, and in 1857 the building was converted into a prison.

The commandant’s residence was built in 1833 and has been rebuilt numerous times. Inside, several restored rooms with original furniture are located. On the hillside extending to the church ruins is the Government Garden. It is an exact replica of a 19th-century garden, executed with great care. The plants here were planted based on seed analysis and period descriptions. During the colony’s existence, the garden served as a resting place for women.

The Isle of the Dead is a small island located just 200 meters from the shore. It houses a prison cemetery, which can only be visited with a guide.

The Point Puer Boys’ Prison was located across the bay from the main colony. It opened in 1834, inspired by reformist ideas regarding the separation of juvenile and adult criminals, and operated until 1849. Despite this, conditions in the colony were harsh, and boys as young as nine were forced to perform hard labor, including construction work.