Really like Sitka, certainly would be on my "don't miss" list for anyone visiting Alaska. The reason, it's history - this little (under 10,000) fishing village was the capital of Russian America and we learned why Russia was here (primarily the fur trade), why they left (declining profits) and how we ended up with what is now Alaska. Central to this whole era is the Russian-American Company and the Russian Orthodox Church, the latter of which is still an important part of this community. In addition to the history we've enjoyed some great hiking.
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| The official handover from Russia to United States ownership took place here on March 3, 1867 |
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| The "Pioneer" statue |
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| Only four buildings built by the Russians in North America still stand - this is arguably the most important |
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| The chapel - still consecrated and in use on special occasions |
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| The Bishop's office |
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| The czar's picture in the main reception room |
The Sheldon Jackson Museum
