aeeble

The world’s only extant Pennsylvania-style prison - Chiayi Old Prison Chiayi Prison was completed and inaugurated in 1922, during the 11th year of the Taisho era, under the name Chiayi Branch Prison of Tainan Prison. In 1924, it was renamed Chiayi Branch of Tainan Prison. After 1945, it was called the First Division of the Third Prison, and in 1947, it was renamed Chiayi Prison, Taiwan. The prison relocated to Luchao Township in March 1983, and the old prison site was converted into Chiayi Branch Prison. The internal facilities are well-preserved, providing a comprehensive and functional resource for legal education and human rights, prison administration, and more. The architectural form, spatial design, and structural engineering of Chiayi Branch Prison are distinctive. Its radial design centered around the central tower allows for efficient control and inspection, embodying an ideal model for prisoner management. The factory and cell block have high ceilings, and the diverse window designs cater to the needs of ventilation, lighting, damp prevention, and aerial patrol. The doors, windows, and wall panels are made from Taiwan’s renowned cypress wood from Alishan, which was specifically chosen for its durability, resistance to decay, and secure construction. As such, it possesses great preservation value.