Melaka, Malaysia has been established as one of the world heritage sites by UNESCO because of its well kept heritage and culture. As Malaysia’s oldest historical city, Melaka or Malacca has become increasingly popular among tourists from around the world.
When visiting the small and compact town of Malacca, you can stroll down the streets installed with century-aged houses and specialty shops. With the support of both the American Express Foundation and Melaka Tourist Information Center, they were able to develop the Melaka Heritage Trail which will guide visitors and tourists to their destinations by simply following the map. This map is conveniently created with easy-to-follow illustrations and descriptions for every targeted site. Melaka Heritaage Trail is like turning back in time for most tourists.
You have to first drop at the Melaka Tourist Information Center when visiting Melaka located at the center of the old Malacca. This is where you get your map and inquire for best tips to optimize your touring to this historic town. You can enjoy 10 major stops not mentioning other mini stops along the trial. Here it is and have a great fun!
The first stop starts at the Malacca River where Melaka history began and molded. Previously, Malacca River was once known an active major port providing opportunities for trade but currently converted for attract tourists. Melaka had been taken over several times by foreigners because of this port. When riding along the river through Melaka River Cruises, you will see at the eastern bank the 15th century palace of Hindu Prince Parameswara.
Your next stop will be the Peranakan Culture or Baba Nyonya Heritage. This culture was initiated with inter-racial marriages between the native Malay women and the Chinese settlers in Melaka. When exploring the place, you will encounter the rich people lane Jalan Tun Tan Cheng where you will find delicately designed houses that show the combined influences of Dutch and Chinese. You can also request for a guided tour in the side of the street where Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum is located. You will see here the displayed miniature shoes which were used by the Baba Nyonyan women.
A few steps ahead you will see Cheng Hoon Teng or Green Cloud temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Malaysia which despite its age, religious activities are still performed here everyday. Moving further you will see the Kampong Kling Mosque, the oldest mosque in Malaysia built in 1748 with Sumatran influence. It is still considered as the core of the Malay community.
Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar temple is the first and oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia. This temple was built for Vinayagar, a deity known to remove obstacles. You are in the right course when you see the well known bright red building referred by the locals as Christ Church, an old protestant church located in Dutch Square. It is believed that there are tombstones found underneath the church. You can regularly hear masses performed here in various dialects to serve its multiple language members.
You will see the St. Paul’s Historical Complex as you go around. It is the home of three oldest buildings in Melaka. Going at the foot of St. Paul’s Hill you will see a red building which was built in 1650 and the former home of Dutch governor. Moving up towards the top of the hill you will find St. Paul’s church which is overlooking the Malacca Strait. On the near side is the old gate of A’Famosa which was built in 1512 and known as Porta de Santiago.
On your way back you will see the Malacca Sultanate which is a newer structure among any other structures on the area. It is the replica of the original palace and turned as the new home to Malacca Cultural Museum. Your final stop will be the Proclamation of Independence memorial or the Malacca Club. This path will guide you back to Melaka Tourist Information Center, finishing your trip through this fascinating and rich culture of Melaka. When you finished visiting the highlighted sites, you can freely go around and experience more.