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Sitka Harbour |
For visitors and residents alike, Sitka offers a
spectacular setting, exotic Russian heritage, an
attractive city centre and a wide variety of cultural
and historic sights. The area, originally called Shee Atika, was home to Tlingit people who fiercely resisted
the arrival of the Russians in 1799. Ultimately, the
Russians triumphed and built a settlement named New
Archangel. When sea otter hunting was no longer viable,
Russia sold Alaska to the United States for $7.2 million
in 1867. The official transfer ceremony was held in
Sitka. www.sitka.org
Attractions:
- Castle Hill is a national historic landmark
overlooking Sitka’s beautiful harbour. Although
Baranof’s “castle” is long gone, several Russian cannons
are there.
- St. Michael’s Cathedral is an exact replica of the
1840 original Russian Orthodox Church that was destroyed
by fire in 1966. It has a priceless collection of old
icons and other ecclesiastical art.
- The Sitka National Historical Park is on the site of
the 1804 battle between the Tlingits and the Russians.
Exhibits show Native history and culture as well as
early settlement life under Russian influence.
- The Sheldon Jackson Museum houses an excellent
collection of Native artifacts and often has
demonstrations of various types of Native art. Their
gift shop offers a great selection of art and books.
- The Alaska Raptor Rehabilitation Center provides a
wealth of information about Alaska’s raptors as well as
viewing of wounded and recuperating birds.
- Other Russian points of interest include the Russian
Blockhouse, Bishop’s House/Museum, and the Russian
cemetery. The New Archangel Dancers perform at the
Harrigan Centennial Hall, which is also home to the
Isabel Miller Museum.
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