Malacca's Dutch Square

The city of Malacca (Melaka in Malay), one of the earliest European colonies in Southeast Asia. The town’s vibrant, multicultural heritage is a result of its location on the Straits of Malacca, a key point on the trade routes from Great Britain and Europe through the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent and the Malay Archipelago to China. This mix of Malay, Portuguese and Dutch influences over the course of 500 years has created an architecture, culture and townscape so unique that it has been given UNESCO World Heritage status. Catholic churches are backdropped by ruined fortresses; Portuguese bakeries can be found tucked away in colonial streets and, come nightfall, the town lights up with Chinese lanterns.

The gateway to Malacca’s multicultural past is Dutch Square in the heart of the city. A legacy of the Dutch colonial era, it is famous for its historic monuments, cobblestones and red colonial buildings (hence its nickname ‘Red Square’).

Here are some highlights:

Christ Church Melaka

With its typically Dutch bright red facade, large white cross and hand-carved pews, this is one of the most photographed buildings in Dutch Square. Built in 1753, it remains an active Anglican place of worship.

Melaka Clock Tower

Built in 1886, the 50-foot Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower was a tribute from businessman and philanthropist, Tan Jiak Kim in memory of his late father Tan Beng Swee who died in 1884. The clock - a British import - is still ticking today and is a popular meeting point and photo spot.

Queen Victoria Fountain

Built by the British in 1901 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee, this antique fountain bears the inscription: ‘Victoria Regina 1837-1901. Erected by the people of Malacca in memory of a great queen in 1904.’

The Stadthuys

The vast, red Stadthuys was erected between 1641–1660 and is the oldest Dutch building in the East. Once the city hall, it is now home to the History and Ethnography Museum which tells the story of Malacca’s journey from Malay Sultanate to colonial European town.

Trishaws

Known locally as the ‘Beca’, there are hundreds of these three-wheeled cycle rickshaws in Malacca and the ones in Dutch Square are known for their blaring music and extravagant designs. Bedecked with soft toys and LED lights, they are as much kitsch art installations as taxi.  

Come and discover Malacca with us as part of our 8-day Journey Through Malaysia