Sitka, Coastal city in Alaska, United States
Sitka stretches along the western coast of Baranof Island, while Mount Edgecumbe rises above the Pacific and dense forests. The city consists of several neighborhoods spreading between the water and wooded slopes, with wooden houses and shops lining winding roads.
Russian traders founded New Archangel in 1799 as the capital of their colony, which became Sitka after the United States purchased Alaska in 1867. The settlement remained the administrative center of the territory until the capital moved to Juneau in 1906.
The Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Michael stands in the center and shows Russian architectural elements with its golden crosses and dome. At the same time, Tlingit communities continue their traditions through ceremonial dances and carve totem poles following inherited patterns.
The Alaska Marine Highway System ferries and regular flights from Alaska Airlines provide connections to Sitka throughout the year. The city sits on an island with no road link to the mainland, so ferry or plane are the only ways to arrive.
The Fortress of the Bear rehabilitation center allows visitors to observe brown bears in naturalized habitats within former water treatment tanks. The high concrete basins give the bears room to climb, swim and dig, while visitors can watch them from elevated walkways.
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