Malacca - Dutch Red House, Clock Tower, Portuguese Square, St. Paul's Church

Malacca: A historical picture of time and space Welcome to Malacca! This ancient city listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO is one of the oldest cities in Malaysia. Its rich and diverse cultural heritage is undoubtedly the most charming destination in Southeast Asia. From the bustling Jonker Street to the tranquil riverside scenery, every brick and tile of Malacca tells the story of the past of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial rule, as well as the present of multi-ethnic integration of Chinese, Malays, Indians and other ethnic groups. Today, we will take you to explore some of the most representative historical landmarks in Malacca and let you experience the unique charm of this ancient city firsthand. Stadthuys - Malacca's landmark building When you step into the city center of Malacca, the first thing that catches your eye is undoubtedly the brick-red buildings, among which the most eye-catching is the Stadthuys. This magnificent building located on the Red Square is Malacca's most iconic landmark and one of the oldest existing Dutch buildings in Southeast Asia. Historical evolution: The Dutch Red House was built in 1650 and was once the administrative center of the Dutch colonial government. It integrates the Governor's Mansion, City Hall and other functions. Its heavy brick walls, huge wooden doors and dark roofs all demonstrate the solidity and solemnity of Dutch architecture in the 17th century. After the Dutch evacuated, the British also used it as an administrative office. Today, the Red House has transformed into the Malacca Museum, which displays Malacca's history, culture, traditional costumes, artworks and traditional crafts of various ethnic groups. It is an excellent place to understand Malacca's multicultural background. Architectural features: The exterior wall of the Red House is painted in bright red, with white window frames and door frames, which is particularly eye-catching in the sun. Its architectural style is simple and practical, full of colonial characteristics. Walking through it, it seems that you can hear the echo of history and imagine the scene where Dutch officials handled government affairs here. Travel tips: The Red House Square in front of the Red House is a popular place for tourists to take photos and check in. There are often fancy tricycles waiting in the square. You may wish to experience this unique means of transportation and shuttle through the alleys of the ancient city. Clock Tower (Christ Church Melaka Clock Tower) - Time Guardian Just next to the Dutch Red House, a small and exquisite clock tower stands quietly. It and the Christ Church Melaka on the Red House Square together form a postcard-like scenery in Malacca. Historical significance: The clock tower itself is not a monument. It was built in the late 19th or early 20th century to commemorate the British colonial officials at the time. Although its history is not as long as that of the Red House, as an important part of the Red House Square, it carries the modern time memory of Malacca. Appearance features: The clock tower is also made of red bricks, which is consistent with the color of the surrounding Dutch buildings. Although it is not magnificent, its elegant shape and precise timing function make it an indispensable landscape in the square, and also witness the changes in Malacca for hundreds of years. Portuguese Settlement - Experience Iberian Style Leaving the city center, take a taxi or Grab for about 10-15 minutes and you will arrive at the other side of Malacca - the vibrant Portuguese Settlement. This is a unique community where the last Portuguese descendants in Malacca live. They are descendants of Portuguese colonists in the 16th century and still retain many Portuguese cultural customs. Cultural Fusion: Portuguese Settlement is not just a residential area, but also a living cultural heritage. The residents here speak a mixed language called "Kristang", which is a fusion of Portuguese, Malay and some Indian languages. Every Christmas and St. John's Feast, grand celebrations are held here, when the whole community is brightly lit, singing and dancing, and full of a strong festive atmosphere. Seafood Cuisine: Portuguese Settlement is also a good place to taste Malacca's special seafood. There are many seafood restaurants along the beach, offering fresh and delicious grilled fish, shrimps, crabs, etc., which combine Portuguese and Malay cooking methods to satisfy your appetite. In the evening, it is a very pleasant experience to enjoy dinner accompanied by the sunset and the sea breeze. St. Paul's Church - Overlooking the ruins of the ancient city On the banks of the Malacca River stands an old church without a roof - St. Paul's Church. It is located on the top of St. Paul's Hill. Although only the ruins are left, it is one of the oldest churches in Malacca and one of the most historic attractions in Malacca. History: St. Paul's Church was originally built by the Portuguese in 1521 and is the oldest European church in Malacca. It was called Our Lady of the Annunciation at the time. Later, after the Dutch occupied Malacca, they converted it into a Protestant church and renamed it St. Paul's Church. However, after the Dutch built the Christian church at the foot of the mountain, St. Paul's Church was gradually abandoned and left to the wind and rain, and only the broken walls and ruins were left. Zheng He's Footprints: It is worth mentioning that the Chinese Ming Dynasty navigator Zheng He stopped in Malacca many times and climbed this mountain when he sailed to the West. Next to the ruins of the church, there is a small "Zheng He Monument", marking his footprints, which also casts a layer of oriental history on this European church. Unique Landscape: Although only broken walls and ruins are left of St. Paul's Church, it is this incomplete beauty that gives it a unique charm. The sun shines on the ground through the broken arches, and the mottled walls are engraved with traces of time. More importantly, from the top of St. Paul's Mountain, you can overlook the entire Malacca city, including the Malacca River, the Dutch Red House and the Strait of Malacca in the distance. It is an excellent place to watch the sunset and the panoramic view of the city. Travel Tips: The road to St. Paul's Church is a bit steep, but it is shaded by trees along the way and the scenery is beautiful. There are also some ancient tombstones on display inside the church, telling stories of the past. Malacca, a city where history and modernity interweave, is full of stories and scenery waiting for you to explore. From the solemnity of the Dutch Red House to the enthusiasm of the Portuguese Square, to the vicissitudes of St. Paul's Church, each landmark is like an open history book, waiting for you to read it. I wish your journey in Malacca is full of surprises and gains!