Historical Malacca

Malacca was founded in the 14th century by a prince, who was fleeing from the Dutch of Sumatera. Only 1957 did Malacca gain her independence as part of Malaya.

Today, one will find many remnants of Malacca’s colourful past, dating back more then 500 years ago. One of this is the well-preserved ruins of a fortress called A’Famosa, which was built by the Portuguese. Tourists can also visit the nearby Stadhuys. Which were also government buildings built by the Dutch in 1650. Located in the same square, is the Christ Church, another fine example of the Dutch architecture, built in 1753, taken over by the Anglican congregation of Malacca, who still worship in this ancient church.

Atop St Paul’s Hill is St Paul’s Church, once the magnificent place of worship for the Portuguese, converted into a burial ground by the Dutch. St Francis Xavier was buried in this church before his body was moved to Goa in India.

Cheng Hoon Teng temple is believed to be the oldest Chinese temple in the country. There are also many interesting museums, like Malacca Cultural Museum, which is housed in a replica of the Malacca Sultanate palace; the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum and the Maritime Museum.

Tourists who make Malacca part of their itinerary would be enthralled by Malacca’s magical charms as they step into history.