Bukit Cina

Bukit Cina

Melaka

65/10060 min

Bukit Cina, located in Malacca City, Malaysia, is a hill of great historical significance primarily recognized as the largest Chinese graveyard outside China, covering over 250,000 square meters with more than 12,000 graves dating back to the Ming Dynasty. According to local tradition, the hill was a gift from Sultan Mansur Shah to Princess Hang Li Po, a Chinese princess sent in the 15th century to marry the Sultan and strengthen diplomatic ties between Malacca and the Ming Empire. The site includes the Well of Perigi Raja, built by Hang Li Po's followers, which served as a vital water source and is now considered a wishing well. Bukit Cina also features the Seven Dragon Wells, dug by Admiral Zheng He's expeditionary forces during their stopover in Malacca, symbolizing the close historical ties between China and Malacca. Over time, Bukit Cina has become surrounded by modern urban development but retains its cultural and historical identity as a symbol of the Chinese community's heritage in Malaysia. The hill's cemetery, temples, and wells reflect centuries of cultural exchange and the importance of Malacca as a regional entrepot during the Ming dynasty.

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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore Bukit Cina during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the historical sites. Early morning visits can provide a serene atmosphere before the area becomes busier. While entry to the cemetery is generally free, it is recommended to respect the solemnity of the site. No specific ticketing is required, but guided tours may enhance understanding of the historical context. Visitors should also consider exploring nearby cultural landmarks in Malacca for a comprehensive experience.

Faits intéressants

  • Bukit Cina is said to be the largest Chinese cemetery outside China, with over 12,000 graves.
  • The Well of Perigi Raja, built by Hang Li Po's followers, is reputed never to have dried up, even during droughts.
  • Admiral Zheng He's Seven Dragon Wells were dug during the Ming dynasty and remain a symbol of historical Sino-Malaccan ties.
  • Some of the original seven wells were destroyed during road construction in the 1950s-60s, but three remain intact.
  • Throwing a coin into the Well of Perigi Raja is believed to ensure a return visit to Malacca.

Histoire

Bukit Cina's history dates back to the mid-15th century when Princess Hang Li Po was sent from China to marry Sultan Mansur Shah of Malacca to solidify diplomatic relations.

The hill was granted as her residence and settlement for her entourage, marking the beginning of a Chinese community presence in Malacca.

During the Ming dynasty, Admiral Zheng He established a regional base here, digging seven wells known as the Seven Dragon Wells to support his expeditionary forces.

Over centuries, Bukit Cina evolved into a vast Chinese cemetery, becoming a significant cultural and historical landmark.

Despite urban development, the site preserves the legacy of Sino-Malaccan relations and the Chinese diaspora in Malaysia.

Guide du lieu

1
The Chinese Cemetery

Covering over 250,000 square meters with more than 12,000 graves, this cemetery includes tombs dating back to the Ming Dynasty, representing centuries of Chinese heritage in Malacca.

2
Well of Perigi Raja15th century
Followers of Hang Li Po

A historical well constructed by followers of Princess Hang Li Po, serving as a vital water source and now regarded as a wishing well with cultural significance.

3
Seven Dragon Wells15th century
Admiral Zheng He

Wells dug by Admiral Zheng He's expeditionary forces during their 15th-century stopover in Malacca, symbolizing the strong ties between the Ming dynasty and the Malacca Sultanate.