History and Ethnography Museum

The History and Ethnography Museum occupies multiple floors of the Stadthuys building and displays archaeological finds alongside historical exhibitions. The rooms contain objects from different periods that tell the story of Malacca's past.

The Stadthuys was built in 1650 as the administrative center for Dutch governors and shaped Malacca's history for centuries. Later the British took over the building and used it for their administration until the early 1800s.

The exhibits show traditional costumes and objects from different ethnic groups that have shaped Malacca over centuries. Walking through the rooms, you see how various cultures existed side by side and influenced each other.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and sits near other historic buildings around the town square. It is easy to find because it occupies a distinctive red building, and different exhibition areas are spread across several floors.

Inside the collection sits a recreation of a traditional Melakan house that shows how people lived in the region. There is also a gallery displaying paintings about sea trade routes during colonial times and documenting maritime history.

Location: Malacca

GPS coordinates: 2.19406,102.24900

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46