All about Malacca

All about Malacca

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Background: Malacca was founded by Sumatran prince
Parameshwara during the early 1400s. In the following centuries,
it grew from a fishing village into a great cosmopolitan city.
Malacca became an important port and trading center for European
and Western countries. Merchants from all over the world came to
trade spices, silk and other treasures. Some even settled in this
land "flowing with milk and honey". Over time, this coveted city
was subject to Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.

Getting There: Malacca is only accessible either from the
Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru airports. However, getting to Malacca
from there is easy as buses and taxis are plentiful. If you
prefer to drive, Malacca is only three hours from Singapore and 1
1/2 hours from Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, you can also take the
train. Tampin, the nearest railway station, is only 45 minutes
away.

Around town: The best way to discover the historical splendor
of Malacca is by walking along her narrow lanes and rows of
beautiful centuries old houses and shops. Another great way is to
rent a trishaw. Always agree on the rates before taking the
trishaw.

Places of Interest: A' Famosa is the hallmark of Malacca and
perhaps the most photographed subject next to the Stadhuys. Built
by the Portuguese in 1511 as a fortress, it sustained severe
structural damage during the Dutch Invasion. The Dutch had set to
destroy it but timely intervention by Sir Stamford Raffles in
1808 saved what remains of A Famosa today.

The Stadhuys, built in 1650 as the official residence of Dutch
Governors and their officers, is a fine example of Dutch
architecture. Preserved in its original structure and form , it
now houses the Historic Museum and Ethnography Museum. On display
daily are fine traditional bridal costumes and relics from
Malacca's glorious past.

Christ Church, standing exactly as it has always been since
1753, is testimony to Dutch architectural ingenuity. Take note of
the church's handmade pews, ceiling beams constructed without
joins, Brass Bible, tombstone written in Armenian and 'Last
Super' in glazed tiles.

Cheng Hoon Teng's Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in the
country. It was built in 1646 with materials shipped out of
China. Fine workmanship is evident in the ornately decorated
mythological figures, carvings,and lacquer work inside the
temple.

Kampung Kling Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the
country with Sumatran architectural features. Instead of a
conventional dome, a three tier roof rising like a pyramid is in
place. A minaret peculiar in shape from a typical moorish style
is structured like a pagoda, portraying the mixture of East- West
architectural influence.

Tranquerah Mosque is prominent in its architectural grandeur,
the mosque is unique and bears testimony to the fact that Islam
had its rightful place in Malacca almost 600 years ago. The tomb
of Sultan Hussain of Johore is in the compound of the mosque. He
was the ruler who signed the session of Singapore with Sir
Stamford Raffles in 1819.

Mini Malaysia is a stupendous theme complex to enable visitors
to view the traditional houses of the 13 states of Malaysia on a
single visit. The complex displays life-size authentic houses of
Malaysia crafted by master builders. Each house has been
furnished with corresponding elements adding ambience of
originality that capture the houses in their traditional setting.

Malacca Zoo is home to more than 44 species of animals found
in Southeast Asia and Africa amidst natural settings. Rated the
best zoo in this part of the country, it is an exciting place to
discover the animal kingdom at your own pace.