Heritage Trail of Malacca
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Port
Malacca, Malaysia
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$79
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Get acquainted with Malacca’s glorious past, hidden behind the façades of some lovely centuries-old buildings. The history of Malaysia is said to have begun in this city, when it was a great seaport that the Portuguese, Dutch and British took turns at ruling. Malacca is now a treasure trove of history, culture and cuisine. Venture down narrow, winding streets to find historical nuggets waiting to be discovered or enchanting stories to be told. The first landmark you’ll see today is the Stadthuys in Dutch Square. Built as the official residence for the Dutch governors and their officers, it is an excellent example of Dutch period architecture. Proceed to Porta de Santiago, built by the Portuguese in 1511 as a fortress. It sustained severe structural damage during the Dutch invasion and, when the British took over Malacca, they set out to destroy it. Timely intervention by Sir Stamford Raffles, in 1808, preserved the remains you will see today. Another point of interest is St Paul's Church, built by the Portuguese. The Dutch then came along and turned the chapel into a burial ground. Your next stop is at the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple—the oldest Chinese temple in the country. You’ll also head to the Old Town to visit the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, for an insight into the culture originating from the intermarriage of local brides with Chinese immigrants. Continue to Kampong Morten to see a living Malay museum, and finish up at the Villa Sentosa, where tea and traditional cakes will be served.