Fort Cornwallis

Travelling can be a great way to explore new places, experience different cultures, and make memories that will last a lifetime. As the largest fort in Malaysia, Fort Cornwallis is an important historical site in Penang. It's worth a visit if you are interested in the island's colonial past.

Let's have some fun facts before we continue our journey in this amazing place.

The fort was initially built by the British East India Company in 1786 to protect Penang from potential attacks by local natives and other European powers. The fort was initially constructed from wood and mud but later strengthened with brick and stone. It was named after Charles Cornwallis, the Governor-General of India at the time. The fort served as a military and administrative base for the British in the region and played a significant role in the history of Penang. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction in Penang, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the island's military and colonial history.

Without further delay, let's move your step and follow me into this fort. After purchasing the entrance ticket at the ticketing counter, you'll explore the fort at your own pace (or take a guided tour).

SMART TIP! You'll be given a complimentary voucher after purchasing your ticket. You can use it as the cashback voucher in the restaurant in the fort.

The statue of Captain Francis Light is a notable feature of Fort Cornwallis. He was a British administrator and trader who was the founder of Penang. This statue is a tribute to his achievements and contributions to the region. It stands in a prominent location within the fort grounds, and you can take a close-up look at the statue and learn about the man and his role in the region's history. The statue symbolises the British colonial legacy in Penang and serves as a reminder of the city's rich cultural heritage.

There are many cannons laid in the fort. These are some of them.

The Sri Rambai cannon is one of the artillery pieces on display at the fort. It was made in 1603 and is one of the oldest cannons in Southeast Asia. It's a large bronze cannon cast in the 19th century and named after the Sri Rambai tree, which is native to Southeast Asia.

Fort Cornwallis has a chapel located within its grounds. The chapel was built by British colonial authorities in the late 19th century and served as a place of worship for military personnel and civilians stationed at the fort. The chapel is one of the oldest surviving buildings within the fort and is a historical landmark in Penang.

Right next to the chapel were barracks used to store armaments, gunpowder, and gun carriages. Some operated as offices and accommodation for the soldiers stationed at the fort. Some were even used as cells to detain prisoners of war and other individuals deemed a threat to British colonial rule.

Internal view of the cell 

If you walk further, you'll see a gunpowder magazine. It was used to store gunpowder and other explosives to defend the fort against potential threats. Its pillbox-shaped design with a thick wall was meant to minimise damage during an explosion.

Last but not least, you can glimpse the lighthouse through the trees. It's one of the oldest in Malaysia, and sadly, it's no longer accessible to the public.

Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower can be clearly seen from the fort. FUN FACT! This clock tower was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.

Fort Cornwallis is a significant landmark in the city of Georgetown, Penang. It offers a deeper understanding of its history, including information about its construction, the weapons used, and the people who lived and worked there. It's one of the largest standing forts in Southeast Asia and is a must-visit attraction on any visit to Penang.