Malacca (Melaka): An Introduction
Malacca, or Melaka as it is locally known is a delightfully historic port steeped in a rich tapestry of multicultural influences. These are reflected in its heritage architecture, diverse lifestyles and eclectic cuisine.
Its strategic location on the Selat Melaka (Strait of Melaka) enabled it to become the greatest trading port in South-East Asia as early as the 15th Century when Chinese junks first moored off shore. It soon became one of Europe’s most sought after prizes and so, after centuries of different landlords, the city now boasts a cultural overlay like no other in Malaysia combining Chinese, Islamic, Hindu, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences.
As you can imagine with this number of cultural influences there are a vast number of places of interest. Our short list of highlights include the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia; the Dutch Stadhuys near the city’s Red Square; the ruins of St Paul's Church where St Francis Xavier was once buried; St John's Hill and Fort; and tucking in to the culinary delights to be found in Little India and Chinatown. Finally stroll along the atmospheric Jonker Street with its narrow winding lanes, beautifully decorated houses, tiny shops, temples and mosques.
As if this wasn’t enough, Malacca is also home to the outstanding Nyonya style cuisine, a unique fusion of Chinese and Malay. The Melaka Laksa is to die for but there is everything from Portuguese-Eurasian food to southern Indian to tickle your tastes buds.
'the city now boasts a cultural overlay like no other in Malaysia; combining Chinese, Islamic, Hindu, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences!'