Unalaska

Unalaska is a settlement spread across two islands in the Aleutian chain, connected by a short bridge and surrounded by hills that rise directly from the water. The built area follows the shoreline, with neighborhoods tucked into valleys and coves while the landscape beyond remains open and treeless.

Russian traders arrived in the mid-1700s and set up trading posts that brought Orthodox Christianity and the Cyrillic script to the Aleut people. The settlement passed to American control in 1867, and its modern layout developed around fishing and military activity during the 20th century.

The Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Ascension, built in 1825, stands as a testament to the religious heritage and marks where priest Veniaminov created the Aleut writing system.

Weather changes quickly here, so bring layers for wind, rain, and cool temperatures even in summer. Most services line the main road, and short walking routes link residential areas to the waterfront and harbor facilities.

The Church of the Holy Ascension holds icons and liturgical objects from the Russian period and remains an active parish today. The small cemetery beside it displays gravestones bearing names in Aleut, Russian, and English.

Location: Aleutians West Census Area

Inception: 1774

Elevation above the sea: 4 m

Website: https://ci.unalaska.ak.us

GPS coordinates: 53.87361,-166.53667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:57