Melaka Sultanate Palace: It was reconstructed at the foot of St. Paul's Hill, the design of which was based on the description of the palace from the sixteenth- century 'Malay Annals' or 'Sejarah Melayu' . It provides a rare glimpse of the ancient Malay kingdom that once flourished here. Presently the palace houses the Malacca Cultural Museum, which includes many artifacts of that kingdom.
The St. Paul's Church: It is at the top of St. Paul's Hill was once the prayer house of the Portuguese Catholics. It was later turned into burial ground for their noble dead by the Dutch having Latin and Portuguese inscriptions on the tombstones. St. Francis Xavier was also buried here in 1553 before his body was moved to Goa in India.
The A'Famosa Fortress: It was build by the Portuguese to defend themselves. It suffered severe destruction during the Dutch invasion and what are left today are just the entrance walls.
The Stadthuys: It was the official residence of the Dutch Governor . Now it houses the Historic Museum and Ethnography Museum which have numerous traditional bridal costumes and relics on display for visitors to admire. There's also the Christ Church built in 1753 nearby, another fine example of the Dutch architecture.
Bukit China or The Chinese Hill: It is believed to be the largest Chinese cemetery outside China with tombs dating back to the Ming Dynasty . During the peak of the Malacca Sultanate, it was gifted to Princess Hang Li Poh by the China Emperor , where in 1459 her followers built a well that is said to have never dried up even today. Now it's turned into a wishing well and many believe those who toss coins into the well will return again to Malacca.
Kampung Keling Mosque: It is one of the oldest in the country. It's a merge of Sumatran and Western architecture with a three tier pyramid roof which is a touch of Hindu influence perhaps and elegant Corinthian-styled columns support the carved wooden ceiling.
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple: It is the oldest Chinese temple in the country and was constructed in the year 1645 . Decorated with mythological figures and animation made from broken glass and porcelain, the wood carvings and lacquer work are almost breath-taking.
Some other places of historical value in Malaysia well worth a visit are:
• Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum
• Hang Jebat and Hang Kasturi's mausoleum
• Hang Tuah's well
• Maritime Museum
• Memorial hall
• Portuguese Square
• Sam Po Kong Temple
• Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple
• St. John's Fort
• St. Peter's Church
For further information on Malaysian Historical Places, go through 123independenceday.com
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