Interestingly, Malaysia consists of two geographical regions divided by the South China Sea. Referred to as East Malaysia and West Malaysia, each is comprised of a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural heritage. Known as one of the most historical regions in the world, Malaysia features significant historical sites of interest to visitors.
Suffering destruction during the Dutch invasion, the A’Famosa Fortress was built in 1511 by the Portuguese to defend themselves. Exchanging hands again in the early 19th century, the Dutch handed it over to the British to prevent Napoleon from taking control. Today the company logo of the Dutch coat of arms can still be seen. Demolition began in 1806 when the British decided not to continue maintaining fortification. The founder of Singapore, Sir Stanford Raffles stepped in to save what is still seen today.
Known as the largest Chinese cemetery outside China, Bukit China contains tombs as far back as the Ming Dynasty. Given to Princess Hang Li Poh by the Chinese Emporer, her followers built a well that is said to have never dried up to this day.
At the top of St. Paul’s Hill, St. Paul’s Church is a burial ground for noblemen. Once a prayer house for Portuguese Catholics, the tombstone inscriptions are written in Latin and Portuguese. Dating back to 1521, the church was originally a chapel called Our Lady of the Hill. In 1641, the Dutch destroyed all of the Portuguese buildings except for the fortress and then proceeded to repair and rename the church.
Constructed at the foot of St. Paul’s Hill, the Melaka Sultanate Palace includes the Malacca Cultural Museum. Based on a 16th century design, the palace includes artifacts of the ancient Malay kingdom that flourished here at one time. Actually a replica of the Melaka Sultan’s palace during the rule of Sultan Mansur Syah (1456-1477), the plans used for construction came from the historical Malay Annals.
Known as one of the oldest in the country, the Kampung Keling Mosque blends Western and Sumatran architecture with its Corinthian-styled columns, three tiered pyramid roof and carved wooden ceiling. Built in 1748, the mosque is located along the Malacca River. Behind the mosque, a courtyard contains a fountain-like pool that is raised a few feet above the ground.
Built in 1645, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest in the country. Amazing mythological figurines made from broken glass and porcelain are brought to life.