FORT CORNWALLIS, A historic bastion with tales of colonial legacy

Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah

The castle was originally a wooden building

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Introduction

Fort Cornwallis is a must-visit destination to explore the colonial history of Penang. This fortress has a long history, originally built as a wooden structure and later rebuilt with convict labor into a stone fort between 1808 and 1810. Inside the fort, several cannons set by the Dutch are on display, some of which were once plundered by pirates but later recovered. The most famous cannon is the SERI RAMBAI cannon, made in 1603, which was gifted to the Sultan of Johor and later fell into the hands of the Acehnese before being rediscovered and exhibited here. Some believe that this cannon has fertility powers, and women often place flowers in it. Beneath the cannon is a small museum showcasing the history of the fort and Penang. Today, only one wall of the fortress remains, and the interior has been transformed into a beautiful park with souvenir shops, a circular theater, and food stalls. Whether you're interested in history or seeking a place to relax and enjoy, Fort Cornwallis is an excellent choice.