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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka is the historical Malacca, the third smallest Malaysian state and one of the world's oldest sultanates. Since it straddles along one of the planet's most important shipping lanes, the Strait of Malacca, Melaka became one of Earth's richest and most powerful empires during its prime. Centuries of trade made Melaka a repository of diverse cultures, cuisines, and traditions, exemplifying the multi-cultural identity of Malaysia.
Colonial Portuguese
With Malaysia's burgeoning economy, Melaka has promptly taken a ride on the waves of development. Hence, from looking wholly historical, the state's capital, Melaka Town, is now divided into two sections: the old and the new.
The fairly compact older section highlights colonial ruins and settlements used by the Portuguese, who occupied the state in the 16th century following Ferdinand Magellan's conquest of Melaka. Among these remnants is St. Paul Hill, home to the ruins of A'Famosa, a 16th century fortress saved from demolition by Sir Stamford Raffles, the British founder of Singapore.
Near it is the 16th century Dutch Square. Other landmarks handed down by the Dutch include Christ Church, Stadthuys, St. John Fort, Portuguese Settlement, St. Paul Fort, St. Peter Church, St. Theresa Church, Victoria Fountain, St. Francis Xavier Church, and St. Paul Church, where the missionary Saint Francis Xavier was buried.
Malay and Islamic art
Reminiscent of the state's Malay and Muslim roots are the mausoleums of Hang Jebat and Hang Katsuri, as well as the Sultan's Well and the mosques of Kampung Hulu, Kampung Kling, Tanquerah, and the modern Masjid Selat Melaka.
Modern conveniences
Melaka's new section sees the boom of real estate, with the rise of convention centers, shopping centers like Mahkota Parade, food and entertainment districts, and hospitals in response to medical tourism.
Modernization also takes place on the town's outskirts, where beaches and offshore islands like Pulau Melaka, Pulau Upeh, Pulau Besar, and Klebang Beach are being dolled up with modern resorts, dive centers, recreational theme parks, and a golf course.
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