Perigi Hang Tuah, Melaka

“History is a jangle of accidents, blunders, surprises and absurdities, and so is our knowledge of it, but if we are to report it at all we must impose some order upon it...”

(Perigi Hang Tuah, Duyung Melaka)

Perigi Hang Tuah is about 2 meter-deep fresh water well, which is located in Hang Tuah Village, Kampung Duyong, Melaka. It was declared as a historical monument under the Antiquities Act on 29 September 1977.

(Kampung Duyung)

(The Perigi Hang Tuah Complex)

The well is related to the story of Hang Tuah, a leading warrior in the archipelago during the Malacca Malay Sultanate (1398 1511). Hang Tuah Yang, who was born in Kampung Jambatan Duyung, is believed to have dug this well himself for his use. Originally this well was small but over time became large and deep. This well is said to never dry up, even in the long dry season. The water is always clear and is said to have medicinal properties.

(Collecting a bottle of the well water)

(Historical description oh Hang Tuah and friends)

There is also a story that this well is where the spirit of Hang Tuah resides, which incarnated as a white crocodile, known as Buaya Putih Perigi Hang Tuah. It is said that no ordinary people can see this crocodile but only the pious could.

(A surau and a Melaka traditional house)