Studthuys, Malacca(Melaka)

The Stadthuys, located in the heart of Malacca (Melaka), is one of the most iconic remnants of the Dutch colonial era in Southeast Asia. Built in 1650, it is believed to be the oldest surviving Dutch building in the East. The Stadthuys (Dutch for “city hall”) served as the administrative center for the Dutch government during their rule over Malacca from 1641 to 1825. The building is a striking example of Dutch colonial architecture, featuring red-painted walls, large windows, and solid timber doors.

 

The Stadthuys was originally constructed as the governor’s residence and office and housed the city’s administrative center. After the Dutch ceded control of Malacca to the British in the 19th century, the building continued to be used as a governmental office under British administration. Today, The Stadthuys has been transformed into a museum complex, housing the History and Ethnography Museum, which showcases Malacca’s colonial history and cultural heritage.

 

Things to Do at The Stadthuys

  1. Visit the History and Ethnography Museum: The museum inside The Stadthuys provides detailed exhibits on the history of Malacca, from the Malay Sultanate to the Portuguese, Dutch, and British periods. It also explores local cultures, traditional attire, and customs of the various ethnic communities in Malacca.

  2. Explore the Dutch Square: The Stadthuys is part of the famous Dutch Square, surrounded by other historical landmarks like Christ Church, the Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower, and a nearby windmill, all painted in the iconic red color.

  3. Admire Dutch Colonial Architecture: Walk around The Stadthuys and enjoy its impressive Dutch colonial architecture. It is one of the finest examples of European influence in Southeast Asia.

  4. Climb St. Paul’s Hill: Located nearby, this historic site offers panoramic views of Malacca and contains the ruins of St. Paul’s Church. It’s an easy climb from The Stadthuys.

  5. Take a Trishaw Ride: Malacca’s famous brightly decorated trishaws are available in front of The Stadthuys. A fun way to explore the city, many trishaw operators offer tours around the historical sites.

  6. Malacca River Cruise: Just a short walk from The Stadthuys is the Malacca River. Take a relaxing river cruise to see the city from a different perspective and learn more about its history.

How to Get There

  • By Car: From Kuala Lumpur, The Stadthuys is about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car via the North-South Expressway. You can use GPS or ride-sharing apps to easily find Dutch Square.
  • By Bus: Buses from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca Sentral are frequent. Once at Malacca Sentral, you can take a local bus or taxi to Dutch Square, where The Stadthuys is located.
  • By Train: You can take a train to Tampin Railway Station, about an hour away from Malacca. From there, buses or taxis are available to take you into the city center.

Activities and Tourist Attractions

  1. Explore Dutch Square: Aside from The Stadthuys, you can visit the Christ Church and Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower, both part of the Dutch colonial heritage.

  2. St. Paul’s Hill & Church: Climb the steps to St. Paul’s Hill to visit the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, where you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

  3. A Famosa Fort: Close by is the remaining gatehouse of the Portuguese fort, another key colonial-era attraction that ties in with The Stadthuys’ history.

  4. Jonker Street: Famous for its vibrant night market, Jonker Street is a short walk away. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, experience street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

  5. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple: Located nearby, this is the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia, and it is a fascinating spot to learn about the local Chinese community’s religious practices.

Places to Eat Nearby

  1. Jonker Street: You’ll find a variety of food options, including popular local dishes such as chicken rice balls, laksa, and satay. It’s a bustling area with numerous restaurants and street food vendors.

  2. Calanthe Art Cafe: Located in a side street off Jonker Walk, this cafe is famous for offering coffee from all 13 Malaysian states, along with local dishes like laksa and nasi lemak.

  3. Famosa Chicken Rice Ball: A short walk from The Stadthuys, this is one of the most popular places to try Malacca’s unique take on Hainanese chicken rice, where the rice is rolled into balls.

  4. Klebang Original Coconut Shake: If you want a refreshing treat, head to this popular stall along Jalan Klebang, just a few minutes from Dutch Square.

  5. Hard Rock Cafe: Located along the Malacca River, Hard Rock Cafe offers Western food in a setting overlooking the historical area.

Opening Times and Entrance Fee

  • Opening Times: The Stadthuys Museum complex is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, including weekends and public holidays.

  • Entrance Fee:

    • Adults: RM 10 (Malaysian citizens), RM 20 (non-Malaysians)
    • Children and students: RM 4 (Malaysian citizens), RM 10 (non-Malaysians)

The Stadthuys offers an insightful journey into Malacca’s colonial history, with plenty of nearby activities, cultural attractions, and delicious local food to enjoy.