Sunday, March 21, 2010

Rediscover Historical Malacca


More than 580 years of history


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, an exiled Hindu Prince (Parameswara) from Sumatra sought in the Malay Peninsular, which he subsequently named Malacca. 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 wonderful insight into cultural diversity of its people.

Porta de Santiago (A Famosa) - This prominent landmark in Malacca was fortress built by the Portuguese admiral, Alfonso d'albuquerque in 1511, it was badly damaged during the Dutch invasion in 1641. Timely intervention by Sir Stamford Raffles, a British official, in 1808 saved what remains of the A'Famosa today.

The Stadthuys - Believed to be the oldest Dutch buidling in the East (circa 1641 and 1660), the Stadthuys houses the museum of History and ethnography. The salmon-coloured building reflects the distinct architectural-style of the Dutch.

Christ Church - Dating back to 1753, the bright red structure is testimony to Dutch architectural ingenuity, Interesting features include the church's handmade pews, ceiling beams (constructed without joints), brass bible, tombstone (with Armenian inscriptions and ' The Las Supper') in glazed tiles. When the British arrived they turned the building into a Anglican church and added a weathercock as well as a bell tower.

St. John's Fort - It was originally a private Portuguese chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Built by the Dutch during the third quarter of 18th century, its cannon embrasures face inland as during that time, attack on Malacca came mainly form hinterland instead of from the sea.

St. Paul's Church - was built on a hill in 1521 by Duarter Coelho, a Catholic Portuguese captain. It was later renamed St. Paul's Church by Dutch. St. Francis Xavier was buried in the open grave here in 1553 before his body was transferred to Goa in India. The church has a commanding view of Malacca.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple - was built in 1646, it is the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia Reflective of Southern Chinese architecture, it features nythical figures, animals, birds, and flowers of porcelain and glass. The main hall is dedicated to Taoist deities. The temple has an inscription commemorating the first visit of Admiral Cheng Ho, The Ming emperor's emissary to Malacca.

Jonker Street - in the older section of the city is a haven for antique collectors and bargain hunter, Authentic artefacts and relics, some dating as far back as 300 years, can be found among a host of interesting collectibles, each with its own history and mystery.

(Full day tour)

Other Places of Interest :-
Maritime Museum , Royal Malaysian Navy Museum, St. Francis Xavier's Church, Proclamation of Independence Memorial, The Melaka Fort, Sam Po Kong Temple, Hang Li Poh's Well, Bukit China, The Dutch Graveyard, Kampung Keling's Mosque,  Sri Payyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple, Masjid Selat.

For enquiry :
Email : citytranslimo@yahoo.com
Phone or sms : +6 012 3363 033+6 012 4080 700 ( Jeff Ye )
http://www.citytrans.com.my/