Fort Cornwallis

The Great Fortress of Penang, Fort Cornwallis was named after Charles Cornwallis, the Governor-General in Bengal in the late 1700s. This landmark is said to be as one of the most historical and fascinating in the city of Georgetown. It is situated just nearby the Esplanade and next to the Victoria Memorial Clock.

The wall of Fort Cornwallis was built approximately 10 feet high. It has a unique star-shaped formation which makes the layout interesting. Inside the building, the original architectural designs which were constructed more than a century ago can be seen clearly. The structures consist of prison cells, a chapel, ammunitions storage compound, a harbour light to signal the ships coming in, the original flagstaff as well as a few old bronze cannons.

One of the cannons was called the Seri Rambai which was dated back at 1603. Interestingly, according to local beliefs, the Seri Rambai cannon has a positive effect on a lady’s fertility.

Today, the Fort Cornwallis is privately managed. This ancient site is famous among many visitors. The management of Fort Cornwallis provides guides to those who desire to know more about the history of this building. Aside from that, it is also equipped with a café, a tourist information desk, a history gallery, an open-air amphitheatre as well as a souvenir centre.

Image by cat_collector.

View official website.

Opening Hours

Monday – Sunday: 9am – 10pm.

Admission

Non-Malaysians:
Adult: RM 20.
Children: RM 10.

Malaysians:
Adult: RM 10.
Children: RM 5.

Location

Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah,
10200 George Town,
Penang.

View on map.

Hear From Others

Fort Cornwallis, a colonial-era defensive structure, is still turning up archaeological surprises.

Imran Hilmy
The Sun Daily

Fort Cornwallis is not only a historic icon of Penang’s history but a unique and precious architectural gem to the world.

Martin Knapovský
Heritage Sixteen

Penang is indeed my hometown. Little did I know that there is actually a hidden gem inside Fort Cornwallis.

Taufulou

Nearby Attractions

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a perfect bygone testament to exhibit Penang’s abundance diversity in history, culture and tradition.

Queen Victoria Memorial Clock

Visiting The Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower will give you a little bit of a Royal experience. Be mesmerized with the four-tier tower, topped with a Moorish Dome.

Penang City Hall

Built elegantly in 1903 with unique Corinthians pillars and huge windows, the Penang City Hall has its individual story to tell to any visitors that come by.