A penitentiary is a type of prison designed to house individuals convicted of serious crimes. Its primary purpose is to serve as a place for punishment, rehabilitation, and deterrence. Inmates in a penitentiary typically face strict rules and regulations, and they may participate in various programs aimed at reducing recidivism. Penitentiaries can vary in security levels, including minimum, medium, and maximum security facilities. The term is often associated with the United States, where many penitentiaries are state-run institutions. These facilities are part of the broader criminal justice system, which includes law enforcement, courts, and rehabilitation services.