George Town's Sacred Sites

George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage status is defined by its multicultural religious landscape. This collection features 19th-century landmarks including the Kapitan Keling Mosque, built by Indian Muslim traders, and the Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang's oldest Hindu shrine. The list highlights colonial-era architecture through St. George's Anglican Church and the Church of the Assumption, alongside traditional Chinese clan houses like Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi and the prominent Goddess of Mercy Temple. These sites reflect the diverse spiritual history of the Acehnese, Hokkien, and European communities.

Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi

Established in 1810, this is one of the oldest Hokkien clan houses in Penang. The complex features traditional architecture with ornate roof carvings, a spacious courtyard, and a small museum detailing the history of the Cheah family.

Kapitan Keling Mosque

The Kapitan Keling Mosque is a mosque built in the 19th century by Indian Muslim traders in George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Old Protestant Cemetery

Established in 1786 shortly after the founding of Penang, this historic graveyard is the final resting place of Captain Francis Light and many of the island’s early European settlers. It is noted for its weather-worn neoclassical tombs.

Goddess of Mercy Temple

The Goddess of Mercy Temple is a Chinese temple in the city of George Town in Penang, Malaysia.

St. George's Church, Penang

St. George's Church is a 19th-century Anglican church in the city of George Town in Penang, Malaysia.

Acheen Street Mosque

Lebuh Aceh Mosque is a 19th-century mosque built by the Acehnese situated on Acheen Street, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Church of the Assumption

The Church of the Assumption was founded in 1786, when Captain Francis Light first came to Penang, Malaysia.

Sri Maha Mariammam Temple

Built in 1833, the Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple in George Town is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang, Malaysia, and features sculptures…