Real life or not, castles represent a fantasy of aged-old battles, romantic rendezvous and candle-lit parties with grand decorations.
We often admire historical castles in European countries but did you know that Malaysia too has a handful of places that look like castles with amazing stories behind them? Travel with us back in time for some interesting facts on some of Malaysia’s castles. If you’re a fan of history, you may want to pay a visit once the pandemic is over.
#1 Kellie’s Castle
Location: Batu Gajah, Perak
Built in: 1915
Castles are often built for a king. However, one castle in Malaysia was not built for a king nor was it built to show off the strength of a kingdom. The fascinating story behind Kellie’s Castle is that it was built by a Scottish that goes by the name of William Kellie Smith as a home away from home. He was a planter who came to Malaysia (Malaya was known then) as a civil engineer.
The castle was supposed to be his ‘Taj Mahal’ to his wife as a symbol of his undying love for her. However, Kellie died in 1926 and that caused the construction to come to an abrupt stop. Even though only three-fourths of the castle is done, it is still one of the better known castles in Malaysia.
#2 Michael’s and All Angels Church
Location: Sandakan, Sabah
Built in: 1893
Michael’s and All Angels Church was built to look like a castle by New Zealander Mr. B.W. Mountfort. The castle was first constructed with timber followed by brick and finally stone. The church was blessed enough to avoid major damage from World War II. Which is why the beautiful stained glass windows known as the ‘Window of Remembrance and The Friendship Windows’ were donated by Prisoners of War (POW) relatives from Australia to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II.
#3 Carcosa Seri Negara
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Built in: 1896 – 1897
This castle-like building is located in Malaysia’s prime city, Kuala Lumpur. The castle was a residence of the British High Commissioner for Malaysia till 1987. Today, it’s an exclusive heritage hotel with an extraordinary hilltop setting. Carcosa Seri Negara offers Malaysians and tourists a great boutique accommodation where they’re able to admire the colonial architecture and luxurious interiors.
#4 Istana Kenangan
Location: Perak
Built in: 1931
Though it is not exactly a castle, it was a royal residence for Sultan Iskandar Shah who stayed there while waiting patiently for the completion of his palace, the Istana Iskandariah. Istana Kenangan has been used to host royal receptions and accommodate important guests.
What is more interesting about this place is that it was built without using any nails. Plus, it has beautiful wooden carvings and woven wall-mats all around the place which enhances its beauty more.
#5 Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel
Image Credit: reinaimaging / Shutterstock.com
Location: Seri Kembangan, Selangor
Built in: 1989
Located in Seri Kembangan, the Palace of the Golden Horses is next to a golf course and on a lake is a real castle-looking palace. You can never get enough of this amazing architecture because it has a Turkish inspired minaret, domes, archways and let’s appreciate the fact that it’s overlooking a stunning lake. Though its name has ‘Palace’ in it, it is a hotel that’s famous for its beauty and elegance.
#6 Colmar Tropicale
Image Credit: Najmi Arif / Shutterstock.com
Location: Bukit Tinggi, Pahang
Built in: Opened in 2000
Colmar Tropicale was modelled after a 16th century Colmar town located in the North East of Alsace, France. This French themed village gets its inspiration from the Colmar village in France which as a matter of fact has a similar looking castle.
Other than that, it also incorporates architectural designs and elements from ancient surrounding villages of Riquewihr, Turckheim and Kaysersberg. There’s even a fountain right in the middle of the central square.
This place was derived from our fourth Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad’s wishlist after his visit to the region of Alsace and was so impressed by it. This inspired the Founder of Berjaya Corporation Berhad to replicate the actual town of Colmar right here in Malaysia.
We’re extremely grateful for this as it is a great place to visit, and enjoy a variety of food ranging from local to international cuisines. Plus, there’s a French dining restaurant readily available for you to try out on your next visit.
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Sources: Malaysiavisa, Trip Advisor
