[MALAYSIA] Sarawak - Fort Margherita

16:25 Travel Bunny 0 Comments

Standing atop a hill overlooking the Sarawak River on the north bank, Fort Margherita was built by James Brooke in 1879 to guard the entrance to the port from the attacks by pirates. It is named after Brooke's beloved wife, Ranee of Sarawak. The fort is now a tourist attraction in Kuching. 

Getting there:

To reach Fort Margherita, take a Penambang boat from the landing across the river to the pier just below the fort.

Alternatively, you can cross the river by using Darul Hana Bridge. 

After crossing the river, just follow the signs directing you to the fort.

Passed by a beautiful wooden gate in the Malay village on the way to the fort.

It was completed in 1879, although the numbers over the main gate say 1880. The Fort has a three-storey square tower which adjoins a courtyard surrounded by walls and canon ports. 

James Brooke ruled as the first White Rajah of Sarawak from 1841 until his death in 1868. The Brooke Gallery showcase belongings from the Brooke family and artefacts during their time as the White Rajahs.

Visitors have to climb a spiral staircase to see the gallery on upper floors.

Statue of James Brooke.

The Eastern Sea by the English navigator, George Windsor Earl, inspired 36-year-old James Brooke to explore Sarawak for himself.

Birth of the State in 1841. Sarawak flag holstered for the first time in 1848.

In accordance to the will of the first Rajah, James Brooke, the dynasty was based on descent through the male line. James was succeeded first by his nephew Charles, and then his grandnephew Charles Vyner. In the absence of a son, Vyner's brother Bertram was the designated heir to the throne, followed by his son Anthony. 

View from the top of the tower.

The courtyard of the fort has an elevated walkway within the walls.

Because of the peace enjoyed by Kuching, the fort has not fired a shot in anger since 1879. Until the Second World War, the fort was patrolled by guards round the clock. They would cry “All’s well” every hour on the hour between 8pm and 5am. Their cries would be answered in sequence by their fellow guards at the palace, the clock tower across the river and the treasury. The system apparently was designed to prevent guards at the fort from sleeping on the job.

Souvenir shop in the fort.

The sign of Fort Margherita on the hill.

The water cascade at the foot of the hill is now closed to public due to construction works.

Fort Margherita