Kampung Kling Mosque
Kampung Kling Mosque is located on Jalan Tukang Emas (Goldsmith Street), also known as “Harmony Street” due to its close proximity to the Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple and Cheng Hoon Teng Temple. This mosque is a testament to Melaka’s multicultural heritage, blending architectural elements from various cultures, reflecting the city’s historical significance as a melting pot of diverse communities.
Originally built in 1748 by Indian Muslim traders as a wooden structure, the mosque was rebuilt in 1872 using brick. It is one of Melaka’s oldest and most traditional mosques, retaining its original design. The mosque’s architecture is a fusion of Sumatran, Chinese, Hindu, and Melaka Malay influences, with a unique blend of East and West that creates a striking visual harmony. The mosque’s triple-tiered green pyramidal roof replaces the conventional dome, and its pagoda-style minaret adds a distinctive feature to the skyline. Moorish elements further contribute to its eclectic style, making it a remarkable example of architectural fusion.
Inside, the mosque is equally eclectic, with English and Portuguese glazed tiles, Corinthian columns, Victorian chandeliers, and decorative touches from Hindu, Chinese, and Malay traditions. These diverse influences come together to form an aesthetically pleasing and culturally rich space, reflecting the multicultural identity of Melaka.
Masjid Kampung Kling derives its name from the nearby Kampung Kling, an area where Indian traders once settled. In 1999, following a restoration by the Department of Museums and Antiquities, the mosque was declared a historical monument, further solidifying its importance as both a religious site and a symbol of Melaka’s rich cultural history.
