The Old Melbourne Gaol: From Prisoner Pinch to Tourist Thrill!
Ever wondered where Melbourne's bad guys used to bunk? Look no further than the Old Melbourne Gaol, a bluestone masterpiece that's traded clanging cell doors for creaky floorboards under the feet of curious tourists.
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| What is The Old Melbourne Gaol |
From Shady Characters to Spooky Specters
Built back in the 1800s, this gaol (fancy word for jail, pronounced "jail" but with a bit more pizazz) housed some of Australia's most colourful characters. We're talking bushrangers like the infamous Ned Kelly (whose skull was famously stolen, but that's a story for another day) and even a bloke called Squizzy Taylor, who wasn't afraid to add a touch of gangster glam to his life of crime.
These days, the ghosts of prisoners past are more likely to be on a guided tour than rattling their chains (although who knows, maybe they sneak in for a night shift). The gaol is now a museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into Melbourne's criminal underworld. You can wander the cell blocks, peek into the gallows (yikes!), and even stand in the very spot where Ned Kelly met his maker.
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Notorious Ned Kelly: Fun fact, Kelly's last words are a bit of a mystery. Some say it was a simple "Such is life," while others claim a more dramatic "I die a true man." History buffs, you can decide for yourselves!
More Than Just Macabre History
But the Old Melbourne Gaol isn't all doom and gloom. They've got a great sense of humour about their dark past. You can take a ghost tour if you're feeling brave (or just want to snap a selfie with a spooky apparition), or join a paranormal investigation to see if you can unearth any lingering spirits (just don't blame them if they decide to haunt your hotel room afterwards).
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They even have special tours for the little ones! Okay, maybe not exactly a walk in the park, but the family tours are a great way to introduce kids to history in a way that's engaging and not too scary.
Top Tip: If you're looking for something a little different, check out their night tours. The gaol takes on a whole new atmosphere after dark, and you might just get a shiver down your spine (hopefully not from the cobwebs).
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FAQ: Your Guide to Gaol Glory
How to get there: The Old Melbourne Gaol is located on Russell Street in the heart of Melbourne. It's easy to reach by public transport or tram.
How much does it cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the tour you choose, but you can find all the details and book online beforehand.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
How long does a tour take: Tours typically last around an hour to an hour and a half.
How spooky is it: It all depends on your tolerance for chills! The regular tours focus more on history, while the ghost tours are definitely a bit more spine-tingling.
How to avoid accidentally becoming a ghost: This one's tricky. Maybe don't break any laws and you should be fine? In all seriousness, the gaol is now a safe and fascinating place to visit.
So, there you have it! The Old Melbourne Gaol: a place where history comes alive (or maybe undead, depending on the tour).
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