Malacca

I visited the historical state of Malacca (also known as Melaka in the Malay language) in early December. Couldn't find the time to post this up, since I'm sick and stuck at home (and had way too much sleep) I have decided to do a write up on my visit :)

Malacca is a special state as it has the influence of so many cultures. It has been colonized by the Dutch, Portuguese and also the English. The Malacca Port was one of the most famous ports as it was a strategic location between the East and the West. Enjoy the pictures :)


Arrived at sunset - 8hrs bus ride from Penang.


Had Satay Celup for dinner. One of Malacca's specialty. Similar to Lok Lok, but instead of dipping in hot water, you dip your sticks in peanut sauce (satay sauce).




River Cruise..


Welcome to the Netherlands! =)

The Red Fort also known as the Stadthuys (Town Hall in Dutch)


Malacca's Coat of Arms .. represented by 2 mousedeers. Parameswara, the last king of Singapore. He fled to this land when he was attacked by Majapahit. One day while resting under a tree, he saw one of his dogs chase a mousedeer, but the mousedeer never gave up and overthrew the dog into the river. He thought it was a good omen to start his empire in this land. He then asked what tree he was resting under, and was told it was the 'Melaka tree', thus that was how it was named.
We also visited the Maritime Museum..a replica of the Flor de la Mar (Flower of the Sea), the Portuguese Ship that Alfonso de Albuquerque use on his conquest to the East.

Traders of spices..

If only they'd brought us here during our History lessons during high school..it would've been so much easier to understand!

Weapons the Portuguese used..oww must've been painful to get hit by that!


Infamous Jonker Walk. Always busy during night and day.
Random people at Jonker Walk


Art on the buildings

Waited for a long time to get this drink. It's very popular and well sought!!


People waiting patiently for their Coconut Shake.



At night we had dinner at the Portuguese Settlement



Beautifully decorated houses to usher in Christmas

Nancy's Nyonya Kitchen - serves delicious Nyonya Cuisine!


Nyonya dish - Ayam Pong Teh . Absolutely delicious!


Another famous dessert stall

they use Gula Melaka / Malacca Sugar to make their desserts, and I must say it is top notch!





Finally...we have arrived at A Farmosa! A fort built by the PortuguesePuerta A Santiago


St.Paul's church is built at the top of the hill. Originally it was used by the Portuguese to store firearms and gunpowder, but now it is a place where all the remaining tombstones of the Dutch and Portuguese are kept.



I had a great time visiting all these places and trying out all the food. I wish I had more time to spend there!

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