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Malacca, or Melaka, is an ancient city located on the southwest coast of Malaysia. With its rich history, cultural assimilation and very distinct architectural style, Melaka has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The city has been repeatedly referred to as the birthplace of Malaysia and has played an integral part in the country’s history and will be a notable place for visitors planning a trip to Malaysia.
Malacca, Malaysia (Source: wise)
Rich and varied, this place's history is like the city itself. Founded by a Sumatran prince called Parameswara around 1400, the place was set up as a strategic port city. Because of its strategic position along the Malacca Strait, the city soon mushroomed into a bustling trade center with traders from China, India, the Middle East, and even beyond.
In the early 16th century, the prosperity of the city drew the attention of European powers. In 1511, it became the first city to be colonized by the Portuguese, and that was the beginning of European influence within the region.
History of Malacca (Source: wiki)
The Portuguese built the famous A Famosa fortress, parts of which still stand tall today to remind everybody of its existence. This was short-lived, however, for in 1641, the Dutch captured Malacca, holding control until the arrival of the British in the 19th century.
Each of the colonial powers stamped the city in its own way, thus engraving an architectural style so unique, a cultural-meld so peculiar that defines this beautiful city today. The combination of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences with Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions gives this city its particular nature and has turned it into a kind of living museum of Southeast Asian history.
The months from April through September are generally regarded as the best time of year to visit this city. It is relatively dry, though hot, but with no frequently falling rain it is easy to tour the city on foot. It is also the dry season, when most of the cultural festivals are held, such as the Malacca River Festival in July and the Jonker Walk Night Market, though it operates all year round, is generally better in ambience during this period.
Although it rains heavily in the wet season, the beauties of the wet season itself are there. The rain can cool down the city, and exploring becomes quite comfortable, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. If you like photography, this is also a time of dramatic skies and reflections that can create some great photo opportunities.
Wangkang festival (Source: malaymail)
This city is also a destination of interest in major Malaysian festivals, including the Chinese New Year, which falls in January or February, and Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which falls at varying dates each year depending on the Islamic calendar. These festivals add an added cultural richness to your visit, as vibrant decorations, special performances, and delicious festive foods line up across town.
By Air: Malacca International Airport or Batu Berendam Airport is the nearest airport to the city. It is located approximately 10 km away from the city. On the other hand, this airport serves only domestic flights together with some routes in Indonesia.
By Bus: Buses remain one of the most popular and economic ways to reach the city from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and other nearby cities. It takes about 2-3 hours from Kuala Lumpur depending on the traffic condition.
By Car: One option is car rentals for those who enjoy traveling by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive from Kuala Lumpur to the city using the North-South Expressway.
A Famosa is the ruin of a fortress that was constructed by the Portuguese in 1511 and counts as one of the most famous landmarks of Malacca. These days, only a small part remains from this structure: the Porta de Santiago gate. Despite the fact that the British had it partly destroyed, A Famosa still appeals to tourists as one of the oldest European architectural remains that survived in Asia.
A famosa, Malacca (Source: eatwanderexplore)
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For stunning views of this city and a sense of the city's colonial past, climb St. Paul's Hill. The top sees the ruins of the St. Paul's Church, which is one of the oldest churches in Southeast Asia, first built by the Portuguese in 1521. Later, this church was used as a cemetery for VIPs and conducting prayers by the Dutch.
St. Paul's Church (Source: agoda)
Probably one of the most crowded streets in the heart of Malacca's Chinatown. Famous for its night market, it sells everything from antiques and souvenirs to street food and local delicacies. Also several museums, temples, and historical buildings dot Jonker Street.
Jonker Street (Source: sightseeingphuket)
This is the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia, dating further back than any other. It is a classic example of what traditional Chinese architecture looks like. One of the most important religious sites for the Chinese community living in this city, this temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (Source: Tripadvisor)
This is a leisurely way of viewing the city by taking an evening cruise along the Malacca River. It offers a different perspective of the city's architecture and its landmarks, while there's informative commentary on this city's history and culture.
Malacca River Cruise (Source: kkday)
Malacca is one of those cities that blend the old and new with effortless ease. From the rediscovery of ancient relics to trying out local delicacies or a leisurely walk across pulsating markets, this destination promises an experience that will last a lifetime with Asia King Travel!
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