Inside 'Terrordome' prison notorious for murder, experiments and inmates 'boiled alive'

Nicknamed 'The Terrordome', Holmesburg Prison had all the hallmarks of a penal institution that probably didn't see too many inmates re-offending.

During its operation, the Philadelphia based jail developed an unenviable reputation of rioting, rape, torture, corruption, medical experimentation and murder. Opened in 1896 to ease overcrowding at Moyamensing Prison in Philadelphia, the facility soon became overcrowded as well, resulting in riots that were brutally quashed by guards.

Following a hunger strike in 1938, 25 prisoners were selected as leaders and transferred to the Klondike, a building with radiators and steam pipes. With the windows and air vents sealed, the building heated up to nearly 200 degrees due to the August heat wave.

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Four individuals succumbed to horrific injuries that suggested they were brutally beaten and boiled alive.

In 1970 a riot involving around 100 inmates "armed with meat cleavers, boning knives, makeshift pitchforks and table legs" destroyed the dining hall and butchered other inmates and guards.

During a particularly dark period, Dr. Albert M. Kligman carried out a range of medical experiments on as many as nine-tenths of the prison population between 1951 and 1974. These experiments involved exposing them to various diseases, chemicals, drugs, and radioactive materials, resulting in skin issues and potential cancer risks.

Thanks to urban explorer Matthew Christopher of Abandoned America, the Daily Star is able to show what the now abandoned building with a brutal past looks like today.

He has a regular podcast, where he tells the story of the ruins he visits, including one about Holmesburg Prison.

You can follow his work on Facebook and Instagram, or by visiting his website.

To see the full Holmesburg Prison gallery click here.