Historical prisons have played a significant role in the justice systems of various societies. They were designed to detain individuals accused or convicted of crimes, often under harsh conditions. Notable examples include Alcatraz, The Tower of London, and Eastern State Penitentiary, each reflecting the legal and social attitudes of their time. Over the years, the design and purpose of prisons have evolved. Early prisons often focused on punishment rather than rehabilitation, with overcrowding and poor sanitation being common issues. Today, many historical prisons are preserved as museums, offering insights into the past and the evolution of criminal justice.