The Allegheny County Courthouse and the Jail are two of the oldest standing buildings in the city of Pittsburgh. Opened in 1888, the architecture inside the courthouse is really marvelous, with marble staircases and beautiful frescos on the ceilings. The building is built in a square shape, with an open air courtyard.

Most of the legal activities in the county take place inside the courthouse walls. The former county jail was connected to the courthouse by a enclosed stone archway. Until recently, those unfortunate few placed in custody would take the long walk over the "Bridge of Sighs." The new county jail is located on Second Avenue, but the old courthouse is still as busy as ever.

This is the third rendition of the Allegheny County Courthouse. The first was built in 1794 near Market Square and was torn down in 1852. The second courthouse was built on Grant's Hill and was in service for 36 years until the third and final courthouse was constructed.