Church of Saint Paul, Malacca — Attraction in Malacca

The Church of St. Paul in Malacca stands as an evocative testament to the city's rich historical narrative. Perched atop St. Paul's Hill, the weathered ruins of this church, also known as St. Paul's Church, offer a captivating journey through time.

Originally constructed by the Portuguese in 1521, the church was later transformed into a burial ground for their noble dead. The gravestones, weathered by centuries, serve as silent markers of the city's colonial past. The church underwent subsequent modifications under Dutch rule in the 17th century, adding to its historical layers.

Ascending the stairs to the church provides not only a physical but also a symbolic ascent into Malacca's history. The panoramic view from the summit is breathtaking, offering a sweeping vista of the city below and the Malacca Strait in the distance. It's a moment of reflection amidst the remnants of a bygone era.

The church's architecture, a fusion of Portuguese and Dutch influences, exudes a rustic charm. The red-bricked façade, moss-covered tombstones, and the iconic 17th-century Dutch tomb of St. Francis Xavier all contribute to the site's historical allure. The latter, dedicated to the revered Jesuit missionary, adds a spiritual dimension to the visit.

Exploring the interior, albeit mostly in ruins, reveals remnants of intricate Portuguese tiles and religious artifacts. These remnants, though weathered, still convey a sense of the church's former grandeur and the spiritual significance it held for the colonial settlers.

Beyond its historical significance, the Church of St. Paul serves as a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Malacca. The hilltop location and the surrounding greenery create a serene ambiance, inviting visitors to linger and soak in the cultural and spiritual resonance of the site.

In summary, the Church of St. Paul in Malacca is a poignant mosaic of history, architecture, and spirituality. Its ruins, perched atop St. Paul's Hill, offer a profound and enriching experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking a deeper connection with the cultural heritage of this UNESCO World...

St. Paul’s Church, perched on a hill overlooking the Straits of Malacca, remains one of the city’s most evocative landmarks. Built in 1521 by the Portuguese nobleman Duarte Coelho, it was originally called Nossa Senhora da Annunciada (Our Lady of the Annunciation). Later renamed St. Paul's, it served as a symbol of Malacca’s early European colonial history. The church witnessed transitions under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule and now stands in dignified ruins, its weathered stone walls and open sky roof silently echoing centuries of faith, conquest, and change.

We climbed the hill twice during our time in Malacca—each visit offering something different. The first was to take in the panoramic view: the city’s rooftops, the distant waters, and the quiet stillness of a space steeped in history. On our second ascent, we brought the drone to capture the site from above. As the camera rose into the morning air, St. Paul’s revealed its quiet grandeur—crumbling yet enduring, open to the sky yet grounded in deep time. Amid this filming, we met a local singer resting beneath the shade. Conversation flowed easily, and we soon found ourselves exchanging music and stories.

I shared with him two songs from my Phenomenology Series: “Let the Peace Flow” and “Who Bears the Fire.” It felt fitting—singing about presence, perception, and inner stillness in a place where time seems suspended. The ruins, with their stone tombs and arched openings, became more than just historical remnants; they turned into a contemplative space where music, memory, and humanity intertwined. In that moment, the hill was no longer just a tourist stop—it became a quiet stage for connection, reflection, and the living rhythm of art in...

Originally built in 1521. Probably the oldest church building in all Malaysia and in the Southeast Asia. The Church of st. Paul which has a lot of history now just a ruin. It has no roof and the walls are not maintained. The view from the top was fabulous! The town below and the sunset sky. The statue is awesome under he floodlights and the church ruins interesting to view. The history of the church is well explained and I really enjoyed reading the translations of the tombstones that good back to the 1600s. The Francis Xavier statue is also worth seeing. Melaka looks wonderful at sunset. Though the church is in ruins for a long time, it remains a lovely sanctuary on top of St Paul's Hill with a great view of the city. A small climb of around 50 stairs and nice views of Melaka await you, especially you can see the Taming Sari tower go up and come down from here. Bring a bottle of water. You get to see the old tombstones as well as burial area. I was here more than 20 years ago and it still remains the same. There are touristy carts, but you can get an engraved key chain or necklace here. Near to all the attractions thus a must visit if you are in Malacca. There is a plaque in the floor of the wife of the first governor of the Cape of Good Hope, Jan...