honeymoon july 2010
The state of Malacca is one of the oldest states in Malaysia and has a colorful history of its existence.
The Malay name was coined when a prince of Palembang on Sumatra island, set foot in Melaka and was resting under a tree when he saw a mouse deer outwit a dog. Seeing an event of disaster, the prince Palembang Parameswara asked his aides what was the name of the tree that was resting under – was told that is the tree of Malacca.
Melaka grew importance during the 1400s and, above all considering that it has a strategic position in the Strait of Malacca. No wonder he had a thriving port became an important meeting point for traders from China and India. He later became a cosmopolitan city with many Chinese and Indian merchants a foothold and continue their business in Melaka. Chinese settlers who lived in the Malay original inhabitants were soon assimilated into the culture of the same, and lifestyle. These Chinese settlers are known as Babas and Nyonya.
As the city of Malacca became wealthy and influential, his empire extended and became a major Malay in that part of Southeast Asia. The religion of Islam also grew along with the Sultans embrace the religion, he said. As a prosperous city, both financial and strategic since it was not surprising that later became coveted in the eyes of the Portuguese. In 1511, the Portuguese overthrew Melaka of royalty and government and governed Malacca until 1641 when it fell to the Dutch.
During the Portuguese rule, Catholicism was introduced by Portuguese missionaries and many feet too to settle in Melaka, the descendants of those who are still found today. In fact, the descendants of these early Portuguese settlers still speak the language Old Portuguese. Meanwhile, the Dutch State brought many fine buildings, churches and infrastructure, the most famous of which is probably color red, the buildings also known as the Stadthuys.
After the Dutch, the British arrived in 1795. The British continued to develop the city Melaka and later became known as part of the famous Straits Settlements, together with Penang and Singapore. English became a major spoken and written language, and is not difficult to get around Melaka if you speak English.
With a history as colorful, Melaka promises plenty to see and experience in the culture, shopping and tourism. Welcome to Melaka!
Learn more about Melaka and other fascinating places around the world at worldwide travel ideas, where we visit some of the most interesting and beautiful places to be found – both natural and man-made.
