Moundsville Penitentiary, located in Moundsville, West Virginia, was a maximum-security prison that operated from 1876 until 1995. Known for its Gothic architecture, the facility housed some of the most dangerous criminals in the United States. Over its 119 years of operation, it witnessed numerous riots, escapes, and executions, making it a significant part of local history. After its closure, the penitentiary became a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours that explore its dark past. Visitors can learn about the prison's history, its infamous inmates, and the conditions that prisoners faced during their incarceration. Today, it stands as a historical site and a reminder of the complexities of the American penal system.