Baranof Castle Hill

The Story

Castle Hill in Sitka is associated with the Lady in Black, a sorrowful princess figure in older Alaska ghost storytelling. A Princess Lodges retelling describes a jeweled woman dressed in mourning and relates an unhappy-marriage explanation. Those details belong to a legend, not a verified biography of the Russian governors’ families. Alaska’s historic-site material separately documents Castle Hill’s importance and the territorial transfer ceremony.

The Hauntings

Castle Hill in Sitka is associated with the Lady in Black, a sorrowful princess figure in older Alaska ghost storytelling. A Princess Lodges retelling describes a jeweled woman dressed in mourning and relates an unhappy-marriage explanation. Those details belong to a legend, not a verified biography of the Russian governors’ families. Alaska’s historic-site material separately documents Castle Hill’s importance and the territorial transfer ceremony.

A sense of place.

Visitor Experiences

Have you experienced something here?

This future chapter will bring together stories from the PHASM community. An unexpected encounter, a lingering feeling, or a quiet visit—your experience will be welcome.

Submissions are not open yet.

Sources & further reading.

• Princess Lodges: Scary Mary and other Ghost Stories from Alaska (reports)
• Alaska DNR: Castle Hill Archaeological Project (history)

Plan Your Visit

Use established public historic-site routes and posted hours; no castle interior survives.