Pheng
Malacca (Melaka) is one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations. The Spanish-colonial ambience in this state just reminds me of Zamboanga [1][2], my hometown. But wait, there's more!!! This is the first place on earth where you could find ruins and monuments both from Asia and Europe situated closely to each other! Taking a stroll in Malacca will be like traveling through the era of Malay Sultanate with the mixture of Chinese & India influence, Dutch Empire, Portuguese and British.


Malacca is a small city with many eye-catching sights and attractive modern establishments. It is easy to go around on foot or trishaws to explore the many places that make Malacca unique. You may also ride buses to visit the different famous sites in this state, as trishaws may be expensive. As you explore them, you'll learn about the rich heritage and history that has shaped the landscape and left a mark on Malaysia's cultural lifestyle.

trishaw

In fact, the city is a mix of old and new, historical establishments and old shops stand side-by-side with shopping complexes and modern offices. There are just so many colorful sights in the city. Follow this map and you'll be able to see the "must-see" places in this state.


These are my favorite Malacca sites:


This is the town square. Malaysia's own 'Red Square', the rather triangular group of red-painted buildings was the center of town during the Dutch years. In its center is a large garden with the Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower, built in 1886 by a well-to-do Straits Chinese, at one end. In the center of the garden is a large fountain carved from red English marble. It was built in 1901 to commemorate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee.

Around the landscaped square are the important buildings of the Dutch colonial administration. The Stadthuys was home to the Dutch administration, while Christ Church was its religious center.



From Stadhuys, you can climb up the hill to St Paul's Church using the stairs, or you can turn right and follow the road (Jalan Kota) at the base of the hill, which will bring you to several of the museums and eventually to the ruins of the A'Famosa Fort. Behind the old gate another stairway head up to the top of the hill.

Last but not the least is Maritime Museum (Muzium Samudera). It is constructed after “Flor De La Mar“, the Portuguese ship that sank off the coast of Melaka with its hull laden with treasure.

This museum showcases the famed Malay Sultanate of the 14th century, including the Portuguese, Dutch and Bristish era. There are also exhibits of foreign ships that once landed at the port of Melaka. From Town Square, walk along Jalan Merdeka until you arrive at the Maritime Museum on your right. Entrance to the museum is 3 Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

For more info: Asia for Visitors 

0 Responses