Alcatraz Island guard towers (former federal penitentiary)

During Alcatraz's operation as a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963, guard towers on the island were staffed by armed officers and equipped with floodlights and weapons to observe inmates and secure the perimeter. The towers played a central role in monitoring movement on the cellhouse and were integral to responses to disturbances and escape attempts. After the prison closed, the towers remained as part of the island's historic structures; Alcatraz is now managed by the National Park Service and the island and its historic towers are visible on public tours departing from Pier 33.