Hang Li Poh's Well
Melaka
Hang Li Poh's Well, also known as King's Well, is a historic water source located at the foot of Bukit Cina in Melaka City, Malaysia. Built in 1459 during the reign of Sultan Mansur Shah, it was constructed by the followers of Hang Li Poh, a Chinese princess married into the Melaka Sultanate, symbolizing early diplomatic and cultural ties between Melaka and Ming China. The well served as the main water supply for the local community and was later used by Portuguese and Dutch colonizers, who fortified it with brick walls. Architecturally, the well is cylindrical, made from laterite stone and red bricks, surrounded by old stone walls and staircases. Today, although the water is no longer clean, the well remains a significant heritage site managed by Melaka Museum Corporation and protected as part of Melaka's UNESCO World Heritage status. It is a cultural symbol of unity between Malay and Chinese civilizations and a popular tourist attraction where visitors often make wishes.
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Tip: The best time to visit Hang Li Poh's Well is during daylight hours when the historical site and surrounding Bukit Cina area are accessible and well-lit. Visitors are advised to explore the nearby Bukit Cina Heritage Trail for a richer cultural experience. While the water is not potable, the well serves as a wishing well for tourists. Entry to the site is free, but purchasing combined tickets for other Melaka heritage sites may offer discounts. Booking guided tours in advance can enhance understanding of the site's historical context.
Interesting facts
- •Hang Li Poh's Well is the oldest water well in Malaysia, dating back to 1459.
- •The well is associated with Hang Li Poh, a Chinese princess who married Sultan Mansur Shah, symbolizing early diplomatic ties between Melaka and Ming China.
- •Portuguese and Dutch colonizers used and fortified the well during their respective rules.
- •The well's water is said never to have dried up, even during prolonged droughts, symbolizing prosperity.
- •The site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing for Historic Cities of Melaka and George Town since 2008.
History
Constructed in 1459 by the entourage of Hang Li Poh, the Chinese princess married to Sultan Mansur Shah, the well provided a vital water source for Melaka's residents.
After the Portuguese conquest in 1511, it became their main water supply.
The Dutch later fortified the well with brick walls in 1677 to protect it.
During British colonial rule, the well fell into neglect and disrepair.
Despite this, it has remained a lasting symbol of the diplomatic alliance and cultural exchange between the Melaka Sultanate and Ming China.
Place Guide
The Well Structure15th century
A cylindrical well made from laterite stone and red bricks, with a raised lip above ground level, surrounded by old stone walls and staircases. It showcases 15th-century Melaka Sultanate construction techniques.
Bukit Cina Surroundings
The well is located at the foot of Bukit Cina, an area with ancient trees, stone steps, and historic walls. Bukit Cina is the oldest Chinese cemetery outside China and an important cultural site.
Contact
Phone: 06-283 6538
