A' FAMOSA Porta de Santiago, Witness to the tumultuous history of Melaka

Jalan Parameswara, Melaka

The ruins of Santiago Castle still have the city gate

Introduction

In the 15th century, the Portuguese occupied this city by force due to the Sultan of Malacca's refusal of unfair trade demands, and built the A'Famosa fortress to defend against the Sultan's counterattacks. The Santiago Ancient Gate, as one of the four passages into the A'Famosa fortress, has also attracted attention for its historical value. However, the Dutch defeated the Portuguese in the war, Malacca changed hands, and the fortress was rebuilt and expanded, with the addition of the 'VOC' Dutch East India Company logo on the Santiago Ancient Gate. Subsequently, the British invaded; although the fortress was strong, it nearly led to the destruction of the entire British army. After their victory, the British decided to demolish the fortress. Despite its destruction, the Santiago Ancient Gate was preserved due to multiple interventions. Today, this sturdy gate still stands independently, witnessing the tumultuous history of Malacca.