Portuguese Settlement
Kampung Hilir, Malacca

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When the Portuguese conquered Malacca, a numerous number of its soldiers married the local women and made Malacca their new home. They live along the coast as fishermen. Until recently, their homes had the shore right behind them, but recent reclamation project in Malacca extended the shore, creating new land, and as a result, their homes no longer enjoy a sea front view of the Straits of Malacca.



A house in the Portuguese village in Malacca.


The descendents of the Portuguese still live in settlements such as Praya Lane and Bandar Hilir. They number only about a thousand or so, and the older generation is still able to converse in Creole Portuguese, called Papia Kristang. The homes of the Portuguese settlement could pass for any kampung home of the Malay or Chinese communities at a quick glance. A keen observation however will reveal the Catholic motifs in their deco.



Portuguese Settlement Photo Gallery


The house of Nicholas Loboo, restored by the Melaka Museum Corporation, showcases traditional Portuguese house in Malacca.



Houses in the Portuguese settlement.



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