Sitka, capital of Russian America

We’re in Sitka, which was previously called New Archangel, when Alaska was part of Russian Empire, before being sold to the USA in 1867.

Nestled at the foot of magnificent glacial carved mountains facing the Pacific Ocean on Baranof Island, Sitka is located on the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage and lies at the heart of the largest temperate rain forest in the world, the Tongass National Forest. With views of island-studded waters and forests descending to the water’s edge, Sitka is home to 9,061 people.

Sitka’s colorful past is a unique blend of native Tlingit culture and Russian history. In 1867, when the United States purchased Alaska from the Russians, the transfer ceremony was held in Sitka, and Sitka became Alaska’s first capital city.

There are many remnants of Russian history in the town, including St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Russian Bushops House (see extras).

Have a good Thursday all.