The Scariest Places on Earth

Jordan Hobbs | November 5, 2018

1. Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary – San Francisco Bay, California

One of the world’s most notorious prisons, Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary is perched on the legendary Alcatraz Island off the coast of San Francisco. The prison is famously known as a dark, forsaken place – especially after the horrific event known as the Battle of Alcatraz.

On May 2, 1946, six prisoners attacked the guards, stole their weapons and tried to escape. But they didn’t have the key they needed, triggering a hostage crisis instead. During a vicious two-day battle, two prison officers and three inmates were killed. Another 18 people were injured.

Many believe the penitentiary is haunted. Al Capone, a former inmate, is said to be heard practicing the banjo which he played in the prison’s band. Meanwhile, others say the ghost of Alvin ‘Creepy’ Karpis roams the bakery and kitchen.

The Battle of Alcatraz took place in Cell Block D. When a prisoner was being held there in solitary confinement, he screamed that someone else was in there with him. When guards came to check, the prisoner was found dead with strangulation marks around his neck.

Today, Alcatraz Island hosts daily tours for curious visitors. The 2.5-hour excursion offers round-trip ferry service and access inside the prison. For those who want to be extra scared, the night tour provides a more intimate and spookier experience.

Yiming Chen / Getty Images

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