St. Paul’s Hill
St. Paul’s Hill and the Church of St. Paul, which was founded as a Christian place of worship during the Portuguese colonization of Melaka, are also included on the list of Melaka’s principal historical sites.
The vista at the top more than makes up for the steep ascent. When you arrive at the top of the hill, be ready to be astounded by the magnificent views of Melaka town.
St. Paul’s Hill, which is conveniently close to the well-known Dutch Square, is a must-see when you’re in the neighborhood. Enjoy a five- to ten-minute walk up the hill on a set of lovely white stairs that run down the slope and go straight to the Church of St. Paul, depending on your walking pace. Remember to stop as you climb the stairs to enjoy the breathtaking views of Melaka town and to look for the ancient Dutch cemeteries that encircle the hill.
The Church of St Paul :
Today, the Church of St. Paul stands as an evocative ruin, roofless and open to the sky, yet retaining a powerful sense of its past grandeur. The most striking feature inside are the weathered tombstones and gravestones lining its walls, remnants of prominent Dutch and Portuguese figures buried within its hallowed grounds. These intricately carved stones offer a direct link to the individuals who lived and died during Melaka’s colonial eras.
The breathtaking view of the well-known Church of St. Paul awaits you when you reach the summit of St. Paul’s Hill. The ruins and other artifacts from the church and Christians from the past are all that are left of this 500-year-old structure. Originally a chapel, the Church of St. Paul was referred to as the Chapel of Mother of God or Lady of the Hill by the Portuguese in Melaka.
The church was first utilized as a Catholic Christian place of worship when it was constructed in 1521 AD by Portuguese Captain Duarte Coelho. However, Christ Church was constructed and the church was no longer used as a place of worship when the Dutch forces colonized Melaka.
The Church of St. Paul is a cherished landmark in Southeast Asia and is currently recognized as the oldest Catholic church in Malaysia. A white statue of St. Francis Xavier stands tall at the church’s entryway; his enduring presence here is evidence that the church served as his hallowed resting place.
Be ready to be astounded by the church’s exquisite architecture and splendor as soon as you walk in. Additionally, St. Francis Xavier’s open grave is located here. Before being shipped to Goa, India, the saint’s remains was first interred in the church.
Even though a metal cage now covers the open grave, people can still steal a glance inside to see how deep the burial is. Remember to have a look at the antique Dutch tombstones that rest against the church’s walls.