Beyond Kuala Lumpur - Malacca

Beyond KL | Selangor | Pahang | Negeri Sembilan | Malacca

Malacca

Malacca blends a rich historical past and a vibrant present. Many of its centuries-old buildings, some of them still in use, can be traced back to its early inhabitants. The state's history began in 1403 when Parameswara, an exiled Hindu prince from Sumatra, sought refuge in a little fishing village on the coast of the Malay peninsula, which he subsequently named Malacca, after the tree he sat under when he first arrived. Administered by the Portuguese in 1511, the Dutch in 1641, and the British in 1824, Malacca has emerged as a unique melting pot of races, providing a wonderfLiI insight into cultural diversity of its people. Easily accessible, the intriguing historical city is just 2 1/2 hours drive southwest of Kuala Lumpur.

A Famosa Built by the Portuguese in 1511 as a fortress, the building was damaged during the Dutch attack on Malacca. It was subsequently restored in 1641.

Stadthuys Believed to be the oldest Dutch Building in the east (circa 1641 and 1660) the salmon-colored building reflects the distinct architectural-style of the Dutch and now houses the Malacca Museum.

Christ Church Another fine example of Dutch architecture using timber, the exquisite craftmanship of this church, dating back to 1753, is best seen in the handmade pews as well as in the ceiling beams which were constructed without joints.

St. John's Fort Constructed by the Dutch, atop a hill, during the third quarter of the 18th century it was once a private Portuguese chapel dedicated to St. John.

St. Paul's Church Built by a Portuguese sea captain, the church was turned into a burial ground by the Dutch for their noble dead.

St Francis Xavier's Church Of Gothic architecture, the Church was built in 1849 by a French priest, Rev. Farve, as a memorial to St. Francis Xavier, a Catholic missionary.

Malacca Sultanate Palace Inspired by the description of a royal palace mentioned inthe Malay Annals, the wooden building now houses the Malacca Cultural Museum.

Hang li Po's Well Built in 1459 by the followers of Hang LiPo, the Chinese princess who married the Sultan of Malacca, it has been turned into a wishing well for tourists.

Hang Tuah's Well Local folklore has it that the spirit of Hang Tuah, a great Malay warrior during the era of the Malacca Sultanate resides at this well at Kampung Duyong, 14km from the town.

Portuguese Settlement A colourful settlement dating to 1930, its inhabitants are Eurasians of Portuguese descent who display sheer joy and exuberance in music and dances during festivities such as the Festa de San Pedro.

Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum Intermarriage between early Chinese settlers and local Malays resulted in the unique Baba Nyonya culture. Within the walls of this heritage building, visitors can learn more about the culture.

Malacca River Cruise Take a relaxing cruise on the Malacca River to see a different perspective of the historical city.

Air Keroh 15 kilometers east of Malacca is Air Keroh, a tourist complex with hotels, golf courses, recreational forest, a zoo, a reptile park, butterfly farm, crocodile farm, aquarium, Mini Malaysia and Mini ASEAN.

Beyond KL | Selangor | Pahang | Negeri Sembilan | Malacca