Penang City Hall

A perfect example to showcase the Victorian architecture, the Penang City Hall portrays a magnificent backdrop to the Georgetown Esplanade. As visitors walk along the Esplanade, the well-designed City Hall is definitely eye-catching. With its Corinthians pillars and massive windows, it is a reminiscent of the British colonization era.

In Malay, it is known as Dewan Bandaraya. This building was built in 1903 and was opened 3 years after construction. In 1906, it acted as the seat of the Penang Government. Currently, this two-storey building, which mixes Edwardian Baroque and Palladian architectural styles, holds the municipal council of Penang.

Spreading widely in front of the City Hall is Kota Lama. During the British era, it was cleared for cricket games and other field activities as well as military marches. As of today, Kota Lama is a famous spot for big celebrations and concerts all year round.

Give the Penang City Hall a tour and check out a huge cenotaph situated on the Esplanade waterfront close by. It was established in 1922 by the British. This is to remember their brave soldiers who have perished in the World War I. With an ocean as the backdrop, it definitely is a focal point for the Esplanade.

Image by cmglee.

Opening Hours

The government office opens Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm.

Admission

This is a working government office. Admission to some areas are restricted.

Location

Jalan Padang Kota Lama,
10450 George Town,
Penang.

View on map.

Hear From Others

When you are strolling along the expansive Esplanade Park in the UNESCO-listed George Town, you will definitely notice the elegant white mansion on the west side of the field.

Penang Trails

The Town Hall is a Grade 1 Muzium Negara gazetted building under the Antiquities Act and the oldest municipal building on Penang Island.

Toh Kim Hock
Penang Heritage Trust

It holds the distinction as being one of the first buildings in George Town, Penang, to be completely fitted with electric lights and fans.

Timothy Tye
Penang TravelTips

Nearby Attractions

Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower

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.

Fort Cornwallis

Nestled close to the Esplanade and right next to the Victoria Memorial Clock, a visit in Georgetown would be incomplete without checking out Fort Cornwallis.

St. George’s Church

The beautiful St. George’s Church is Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican Church and has a distinctive Greek design.