Cell Block Seven

Cell Block Seven, originally uploaded by M. Rosenberg.

This is the view down cell block seven at the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I encourage everyone to take the tour if you have time while you're visiting Philadelphia. A really amazing building with an amazing history that not too many people know about.

According to the Penitentiary website: In May 1833, architect John Haviland created a new model for Cell Block Seven, one with several advantages over earlier cell blocks at the site. The most noticeable difference between Cell Block Seven and the previous two story cell blocks – Four, Five & Six – is the 30 foot barrel vault ceiling. In addition, Haviland set the catwalks back so they did not hang over the first floor. This made the block brighter and contributed to the Cathedral - like atmosphere. When Cell Block Seven was finished in 1836, it marked the completion of the original construction.