The Authentic Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

Discover the lifestyles and cultural of the Baba Nyonya of Melaka (Malacca).

Along Heeren Street or better known as the Millionaire’s Row resides the Baba Nyonya community; also known as Cina Peranakan or “Straits-born Chinese”. This community has existed before the 15th century due to intermarriages between the Chinese traders and local Malays.

Imagine yourself having to admire the exquisite-looking residence along Heeren Street from the road edges and later peep through the glass window-panes for a glimpse of the interior. It does seem funny and ridiculous to the local Melakans.

The front view of the museum

Now everything has changed as tourists can enter and even tour one of these ancestral homes which has been converted into a living museum the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

The museum itself was once the family home known as Rumah Abu (ancestral home) of the Baba Chan family. It has been around for more than 107 years!

Yup! The house was built during the Dutch occupancy and bought over by the Baba Chan family.

What to expect?

A private guide will escort and explain to the group (tourist) as you tour around this magnificent house where you could discover the day-to day household utensils and paraphelia of old.

Moreover, there are so many pieces of Nyonya-ware which today are difficult to come by and expensive if available.

There’s one exhibit that you won’t want to miss, the colourful and exciting Baba Nyonya bridal chamber! Click here to read about the Baba Nyonya Wedding.

As for the food lovers, a step into the family kitchen is also a revelation (aside from enjoying the fabulous cuisine)!

Ancient ice-cream maker, which I have not seen before.

Stone Grinder that makes the delicious Baba Nyonya Chilly (sambal) and various cooking utensils.

What I have mentioned above are some of the notable “treasures” in the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Therefore, arts and cultural lovers! Don’t miss visiting this Melaka Historical Fun place!

What’s more, you can learn or know the lifestyles and culture of this “made in Melaka” community as you tour around this magnificent Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Location:

No.50, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock (Heeren Street). The road runs parallel to the Jonker Street.

Tel: +606-283 1273

Entrance fee: RM 8.00

Operating Hours:
10.00 a.m -12.30 p.m
2.00 p.m – 4.30 pm daily.

Want more than just paying a visit to Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum?

Come and stay at Caf 1511 Guesthouse. This guesthouse is located next to Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum offers the occupants a real experience of living in a Peranakan House.

Unlike the Puri Hotel and Baba Hotel, a stay in Caf 1511 Guesthouse (I could promise that you will stay in a real or original Baba Nyonya House full with antique furniture and household items ) However, not to worry as basic modern amenities like air-condition bedrooms and modern toilet with hot shower are provided.

When you are here in Melaka, dont miss this chance to truly experience the stay in a real Peranakan house firsthand. Book your room here to enjoy the "real stay" in a Baba Nyonya House.

OR Read what other travelers have to say about Cafe 1511 Guesthouse here