The Hidden Gem in Fort Margherita Kuching
Any good panoramic view of Kuching’s riverfront would not be complete without the inclusion of Fort Margherita. It is historic, iconic, and beautiful (not to forget, strategic since its main purpose was to protect old Kuching from pirates and other river-borne invasions!)
But did you know that this monument also houses the impressive (and new) Brooke Gallery?
Officially opened in September 2016, this gallery houses artefacts from historical Sarawak, particularly from during the Brooke Dynasty and it is fully supported by the Brooke Trust.
The gallery has several floors worth of exhibits, housed in the gorgeous fort that in itself is a huge attraction. Expect to spend a couple of hours here to take it all in. If all that history is a bit much after a while, you could take a stroll in the fort’s gorgeous grounds. As a bonus, you could even head up to the roof of Fort Margherita and get an amazing view of Kuching (and while you’re up there, help us look out for pirates!)
TRIVIA: Most of you probably know that Fort Margherita was named after Rajah Charles Brooke’s wife, Ranee Margaret Alice Brooke. But did you also know that Ranee Margaret was a close friend of the famous playwright and wit Oscar Wilde? Wilde even dedicated one of his short stories, The Young King, to her!
Opening Hours: Mon to Thurs, 9:00 am to 4:45 pm. Weekends and public holidays, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Getting There: From the waterfront, take a sampan to the other side, and a short walk through Kampung Boyan. Else, you could drive to the other side, through the road between Wisma Bapa Malaysia and the Old ADUN building.
Admission: Locals RM 5; Foreigners RM 20, concessions for school students.
References:
http://www.theborneopost.com/2016/09/25/brooke-gallery-opens-at-fort-margherita/
https://www.facebook.com/thebrookegallery/