Melaka
The historic trade centre of Melaka is among the most mesmerising and multicultural cities in South-East Asia – and one of the oldest. Located on the Straits of Melaka, the city was established in the late 1300s under a sultanate that held sway for many generations. The city grew to prominence thanks to a harbour ideally situated along the spice trade routes linking India, Europe and the Far East.
Early South Indian merchants brought Islam to the region through Melaka, and Chinese traders began settling here long before it became a prized colonial port city. First the Portuguese colonised Melaka, taking advantage of its strategic position and ready access to Malaya’s natural resources. Over a century later, as the other major European empires began to venture east, the city was the site of many battles. The Dutch were the first to take over, followed by the British.
Melaka’s long history of colonial occupations has left it with a diverse legacy. There are very few places in the world where you’ll find Hindu temples, Islamic mosques and Catholic churches mere steps from Chinese Buddhist temples. Melaka is one of Asia’s great cultural melting pots and an endlessly fascinating place to explore.
What to do
The entire historic centre of Melaka can be seen over a hectic day of walking or, ideally, over a couple of leisurely days on foot and via the city’s famed trishaws, on which a night ride is a must.
Most of city’s old colonial sites can be found to the south-east of the quayside. A Famosa Fort, St Paul’s and St Peter’s churches and the Maritime Museum are must-see fixtures here, and an evening stroll around Kampung Bukit Cina makes for an unforgettable experience.
Melaka is renowned for its Baba-Nyonya (Chinese-Malay) culture, which is alive and sizzling just about everywhere you look. Once you’ve experienced the city’s colonial legacy and begun to explore the old Peranakan Chinese quarter of town, you’re sure to be dazzled. Malaysia as a whole amounts to a cultural and ethnic mosaic, but old Melaka is undoubtedly its epicentre.
The best way to take it all in is simply to wander around. Jonker Street, Heeren Street and Temple Street (also known as Jalan Hang Jabat, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock and Jalan Tokong, respectively) form the heart of Peranakan Melaka, whose UNESCO World Heritage status is well-earned.
The melange of architectural styles is amazing, with a church, mosque or other eye-catching structure popping up around just about every corner. Take the time to check out the museums and other cultural facilities, especially the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Centre, which is the ideal place for a deeper look into this fascinating subculture.
Where to stay
Melaka is home to many small hotels, some located in old Peranakan-style buildings. The Baba House is a great place to stay and get a feel for the old city. Scenes from a wide range of films were shot here. A more upmarket option is the nearby Jonker Boutique Hotel. For something larger and more modern, try the Equatorial Hotel, a favourite with tour operators.
You’ll also find several small restaurants here that serve Nyonya dishes, as well as the superb riverside Harper’s Restaurant and the atmospheric Geographers Café.
Find it:
IF YOU LIKE THIS TRY...
1 GEORGETOWN, PENANG The city of Georgetown (often referred to as Penang) is quite similar to Melaka, and has a superb historic centre, as well UNESCO World Heritage Site status and a thriving Baba Nyonya culture. www.tourismpenang.net.my
2 MACAU Macau has some of the best-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture in all of Asia, as well as a great old Eurasian feel to it. Needless to say, there is also plenty of old Chinese architecture and a rich culture. www.macautourism.gov
3 SINGAPORE Singapore has long been considered the capital of the new “Straits,” and its historic centre is home to some great colonial architecture and cultural mixes. It could be considered a latter-day Melaka. www.visitsingapore.com
Comments
Post a new comment