5-Minute Guide to Malacca

The post 5-Minute Guide to Malacca appeared first on Footloose.

Dubbed “The Historic State”, Malacca is a west coast state in the southern part of Peninsula Malaysia that is a rich historical and cultural melting pot thanks to its past under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.

Its strategic location along the Straits of Malacca connects the Indian Ocean with the Far East and Malacca was once a trading hub for visitors from India, Arab, China and Iran, exchanging silk, spices and dyes. Each of these traders, together with its different rulers, contributed to the unique history and culture of Malacca.

Malacca’s city centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is here that you will find plenty of heritage sites, ruins of fort, colonial buildings, temples, churches and old architecture. To name a few:

• A’Famosa Fort (Porta de Santiago)
• Red Square (Dutch Square) where you will find Christ Church & Stadthuys
• Paul’s Hill
• Cheng Hoong Teng Temple
• Flora de la Mar Maritime Muséum

Culture of Malacca

While Malacca is home to a multi-racial population consisting of Chinese, Indians and Malay, it is the Portuguese and Peranakan communities and their culture that draws the attention of tourists from all over the world.

Descendants of Portuguese colonists from the 16th and 17th century are present till this day in Melaka and continue to uphold the traditions that originated from Portuguese occupation. Today, you will find a sizeable community in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca.

The Peranakans or ‘Baba Nyonya’, on the other hand, are the descendants as a result of intermarriage between Chinese and Malay. The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum will offer greater insight to the lifestyle, dressing and rituals of the Peranakan people.

Food of Malacca

It is a neverending food trail in Malacca! You will never go hungry! From nyonya cuisine such as Asam Pedas, Otak-Otak and the infamous Cendol, and Portuguese dishes like Ikan Bakar, Alai, Serkam and Umbai, to Satay Celup, Chicken Rice Balls and seafood, you name it and you will find it.

 

The post 5-Minute Guide to Malacca appeared first on Footloose.

from
https://www.footloosetours.com/5-minute-guide-malacca/