The Rock - a small island bang in the middle of the wonderful San Franciso bay.

The approach to Alcatraz island ... it takes 15 minutes by ferry from the shore to "The Rock".

The ferry circumnavigates the island before landing.

One of several watchtowers on the island. Many of the buildings are very well preserved - others no so much.

Looking north, towards the lighthouse.

The Alcatraz welcome sign

A view from the guard's cabin.

Lower level of the island looking towards San Francisco Bay Bridge

Alcatraz is set on several levels, with the main prison and cell block being at the top.

Atmospheric ??

Looking towards Oakland, California.

Long and winding walkways get you to the top.

Cell block city - this row was called Broadway. There were only about 250 on Alcatraz at any time ... the worst of the worst were sent here.

A cell - 10' by 7

The recreation yard - the cons got out once a day, for an hour at a time.

More cells - if you get the chance, go on the self guided tour with headphones - its free, short, informative and quite excellent.

"So close" - this shot is from the library room, looking directly over to San Francisco - they were so close that when people on the mainland were celebrating, the prisoners could hear them ...

Alcatraz Square

Lower level of Alcatraz Square

Watchtower, ferry port and San Francisco Bay Bridge

Undergroudn tunnels through which the prisoners were lead to be processed

Leaving - the wake of the ferry made a great contrast against the dark island.