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| | | Malacca is an enchanting town with historical relics and equally interesting modern attractions. The best way to explore it is on foot, by bicycle or trishaw - a dying mode of transportation in this age of fast cars and fancy machines - pedaled by a local with a wealth of knowledge about the town. Malacca has many attractions, mostly old structures and historical sites in the town and its outskirts. First stop, Chinatown. The one thing that distinguishes Malacca’s Chinatown from other Chinatowns in Malaysia is its infectious hippie atmosphere, making it an ideal getaway for the weekend. Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Hang Jebat and Jalan Tokong, in Malacca’s Chinatown have charming temples and traditional Dutch-inspired shophouses which ore more than 100ft long. The enclave is home to interesting shops selling curios, crafts and treasures from the east, and is alive with fascinating sights, sounds, tastes and shopping excitement. Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, formerly known as Heeren Street, was occupied by wealthy Baba (Straits-born Chinese) traders back in the early 20th century. The Peranakan shop houses here are very interesting. Their unique style, a combination of Chinese, Dutch and British influences, has been categorised as Chinese Baroque. Adorned with intricate tiles and plasterworks, they often have on internal open courtyard for sunlight and ventilation. Pay close attention to the carved lintels, cornices and other architectural details in the home. | | | | | | The next street, Jalan Hang Jebat, is famed for its crafts, antiques and curio shops. Also known as Jonker Street, this road is closed to cars on weekend nights for the Jonker Walk night market. Jalan Tukang Besi, which adjoins Jalan Tokong, is rather unique. This street is nicknamed “Harmony Street” because you can find on Indian temple, a mosque and a Chinese temple alongside one another. Jalan Tokong is made more exciting by the Chinese traditional trades. Here, you’ll find Chinese effigy makers and shops that sell red and gold lanterns, paper money and Chinese funerary necessities. Be adventurous and venture into the narrow alleyways between the shop houses and you might lust wander into a hidden street filled with more antiques and trades. Look out for the craftsmen of doll- like shoes, silversmiths and artists. | 
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| | | The historic centre of Malacca extends out of Chinatown into the gloriously red Stadthuys Dutch Square located across the Malacca River. This town square, which used to be the town hall and governor’s residence during the Dutch occupation back in the 1 640s, is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. Near the old church and clock tower, a row of brightly decorated trishaws wait to pick up passengers. From Stadthuys, walk up Bukit St Paul and admire the ruins of St. Paul’s Church. Within its walls, you’ll find many fine old tombstones. Follow the steps down to Porta de Santiago, the Portuguese fortress famously known as A’ Famosa built in 1512. The main gate is the only surviving relic of this once majestic fort. | | | | | | | Melaka / Malacca | Heritage Trails |
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