Six Must Visit Ethnic Historical Places in Melaka

Melaka is known as a state which is rich in history and unique culture. It is strategically located between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur bordering Negeri Sembilan and Johor. It is also less than an hour from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

Here's the list of Six Interesting Places to visit while you're in Melaka:

The Story of Stadthuys Complex

This massive red town hall and governors' residence is the most prominent relic of Dutch era in Melaka. Built between 1641 and 1660, it is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. It displays all the typical features of Dutch colonial architecture. This building now comprises of a few museums including the History and Ethnography Museum, Literature Museum, Governor Museum, Admiral Cheng Ho Gallery and Democratic Rule Museum.

The Melaka Sultanate Palace

The Melaka Sultanate Palace is a replica of a Sultan's palace during era of Sultan Mansur Shah, this replica was built from information and data obtained from the Malay Annals depicting the unique architecture of a palace. Located at the foot of St. Paul's Hill (Melaka Hill) and an interesting feature of the building is that no nail were used in the construction of the building, only wooden pegs.

A' Famosa Porta De Santiago

Porta is Portuguese for gate. This entrance is the only remnant of the old fort built by The Portuguese after their conquest of Melaka in 1511. The 'S' shaped passage was constructed as a defense against cannons. Taking over from the Portuguese in 1641, the Dutch restored and extended the fortifications. Above the archway, one will see the emblem of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) and the year 1670 marked by the Dutch during that time.

Kampung Kling Mosque

This amazing Sumatran architecture is one of the oldest mosque in the country, but is still well intact and preserved. Unlike other typical domes, the Kampung Kling Mosque has a three-tiered roof shaped like a pyramid. Shaped like a Pagoda, the Moorish styled minaret is a true display of East-West architectural influences. The mosque is located at the junction between Jalan Lekiu and Jalan Tukang Emas.

Cheng Hoon Teng

Spanning 49,250 square feet, The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple with a history of over 300 years has been a symbol of glory of the local Chinese. It has been pillar to the moulding of the Chinese spirit and beliefs. Today, foreign and local tourists alike gather here to bear witness to this historical monument and its awe-spiring wooden sculptures.

Baba & Nyonya Herigate Museum

'Straits Chinese' or the Baba and Nyonya, are Chinese who have adopted much of the Malay culture. This unique heritage can now be viewed by the public at this private museum ran by the Baba and Nyonya of Melaka.