Santiago Old City Gate

Santiago Old City Gate

The Santiago Old City was a fortress built by the Portuguese and is a symbol of Malacca. However, after years of war and destruction, only a solitary city gate remains—the Santiago Old City Gate, which is the oldest European structure left in Asia.

In 1511, after the Portuguese captured Malacca, they built this fortress at the foot of St. Paul’s Hill to protect their citizens and the spice trade from the remnants of the Malacca Sultanate. During the Dutch siege that led to the capture of Malacca in 1641, the fortress suffered heavy damage. After taking over Malacca, the Dutch rebuilt it and engraved the initials “VOC” (for the Dutch East India Company) on the gate. Later, during the Napoleonic Wars, when France attacked the Netherlands—Britain's ally—the Dutch handed over their overseas colonies to British administration. In 1808, British soldiers took the opportunity to demolish the Santiago Fortress. Thanks to the intervention of Sir Stamford Raffles, the British abandoned their plan to destroy it, but the interference came too late, leaving only the current Santiago Old City Gate.

In 2003, the remaining foundations of the old city walls were discovered and listed as a heritage site for protection. Although only the city gate remains, it still attracts many visitors. Seeing its solid and massive structure gives a glimpse into the former glory of the ancient city.

A Famosa

Must-visit reason: The oldest European structure remaining in Asia

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Malaysia

State/Province where the attraction is located: Malacca State