Описание

The Round House is a historic building located in Fremantle, Western Australia. Built in 1831, it is the oldest public building in Western Australia and was originally used as a jail for colonial prisoners. Today, the Round House is a popular tourist attraction and museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Western Australia's early history.

The Round House was built to house the growing number of convicts arriving in Western Australia. It was designed to be a secure prison, with walls that were 18 inches thick and a small door that was the only entrance and exit. The jail housed both male and female prisoners, with up to eight prisoners crammed into each cell.

Visitors to the Round House can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building and the early days of Fremantle. The tour includes a visit to the jail cells, the guardroom, and the gaolers' quarters. Visitors can also climb to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and the city.

One of the most unique features of the Round House is the daily 1 pm cannon firing. This tradition dates back to the 19th century, when a time ball was dropped from the tower every day at 1 pm to help ships synchronize their chronometers. The cannon firing was introduced in the 1900s as a way to mark the time, and it has been a daily tradition ever since.

The Round House is also home to a small museum, which features displays and artifacts related to the history of Fremantle and the Round House itself. Visitors can learn about the early days of the town, the role of the Round House as a jail, and the daily life of the prisoners who were held there.

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