Russian Bishop's House, Sitka (must see)

The Russian Bishop's House stands as a remarkable testament to the Russian colonial legacy in North America,. Constructed in 1842, this historic structure is one of the few remaining examples of Russian colonial architecture on the continent. Sitka, known as New Archangel during the Russian colonial era, served as the capital of Russian America, and the Bishop's House played a central role in the region's religious and administrative affairs.

During its heyday, the Bishop's House served as the hub of Russian Orthodox Church authority in a vast diocese that extended from California to Siberian Kamchatka. As a symbol of the Russian Orthodox Church's influence and presence in the region, the Bishop's House held significant religious and cultural importance for the local community. However, by the late 20th century, the once-proud structure had fallen into disrepair, with deteriorating walls, leaking roofs, and structural instability threatening its survival.

In 1973, for over 16 years, meticulous efforts were undertaken to restore the building to its original 1853 appearance, ensuring that future generations could experience and appreciate the rich history and heritage of Sitka's Russian-American period. Today, visitors to the restored Russian Bishop's House have the opportunity to step back in time and gain insight into daily life during the Russian colonial era, offering a glimpse into Sitka's fascinating past and cultural heritage.