Fort Denison
Fort Denison
Fort Denison (located off of Sydney harbor) – during the early days of Australia’s colonial period, this was originally a prison island. During the 1850s, concerns over the defense of Sydney harbor prompted the local authorities to convert it into a fort (naming it after the Governor of New South Wales province at that time). Its unique Martello tower (which grew in popularity during the 19th century) made it easy for artillery to traverse (and fire over) a complete 360° circle. This was the only such fort ever to be built in Australia.
Nowadays, guided tours of Fort Denison are conducted up to three times a day. The 30-minute tours are lead by NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service rangers, who take visitors around the island, exploring its colorful past, a museum containing colonial artifacts, and other fort facilities. In keeping with its military past, the fort’s cannon is fired daily at 1:00 pm. Admission: A$15.50 (adult), A$14.50 (seniors), A$13.50 (children). Tour times: 12:15 pm & 2:30 pm (Monday & Tuesday); 10:45 am, 12:15 pm, 2:30 pm (Wednesday – Sunday).