Malacca
is one of Malaysia's oldest and most diverse city. Founded in early 15th
century as a Malay
kingdom under Chinese protectorate, it was later colonized by the
Portuguese, taken over by the Dutch and passed to British rule before
becoming a part of the Malayan Federation. The 600 years of inter-action
between the different foreign and indigenous Malay cultures created a
unique place and people.
We drive north
of the border making a short stop at Yong Peng. A sumptuous lunch
will be served upon reaching Malacca.
In the
afternoon, we will climb up the historic St. Paul's Hill where
St Francis Xavier preached three centuries ago. He was buried here
in 1533 before his body was moved to Goa in India. Next, we proceed to
Dutch Square with its old buildings. Not to be missed is the
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, beautifully adorned with colored glass
porcelain and exquisite wood carvings. It is one of the oldest Chinese
temples in Malaysia.
Last stop before
heading back is the formidable A-Famosa (Porta De Stantoago).
This Portuguese fort guarded Malacca for 130 years but has laid in ruins
since its fall to the Dutch in 1645. Today, only the imposing old
gateway is left intact.
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