Malacca, known locally as Melaka is a state located at the western coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is known as the historical city of the country as this is where the origins began. Colonization has since bring about a mixed of culture and left behind a rich heritage and legacy that can still be found in the state today.

Formed by Parameswara (of whom is believed to be a descendant of Alexander the Great) he derived the name after witnessing some very fierce battle between a mouse deer and his hunting dogs. As he was at the moment resting underneath the Melaka tree, he decided that it signifies the weak overcoming the strong, he decided to start his kingdom there with the name of the tree bearing its title. Another school of thought has it that the name was derived from the Arabian word for market which is Malakat, which it was a successful one during that time.

Its logistic location of being in the middle of trade pathways meant that Malacca grew exponentially into one of the most sought after ports during the 14^th century, bringing traders from as far as China and the Middle East which eventually see the adoption of Islam as the official religion then. The Chinese brought about their culture and trade to Malacca including a royal marriage between the Sultan and a Chinese princess, the Princess Hang Li Po and Sultan Mansur Shah, one of the most successful rulers.

When the Portuguese arrived in 1509, things changed which eventually led to the empire’s downfall into the hands of the Portuguese. The ruler then fled to nearby state Johor, and later one, Malacca fell into the hands of the Dutch before the British took over. By this time, the port that was Malacca’s main attraction was no longer as significant as it was.

Apart from its authentic food and cuisine, Malacca also has many landmarks for the historically inclined. The A Famosa gate for instance is pretty much the epitome of Malacca culture, while the Peranakan culture is still very much prominent here.