Being the largest standing fortification in Malaysia, Fort Cornwallis stands proudly at the believed point where Captain Francis Light landed in the year 1786, thus proclaiming Penang to be a British settlement. As one of the remnants of the history of Penang during its time as a British settlement, Fort Cornwallis has now become on of the island’s most renowned tourist destination. Found at the northeastern coast of Penang, the fort is said to be star shaped and to have built upon the original fort, which was built of nibong palm trunks.

Named in honour of Charles Cornwallis, the 1st Marquess Cornwallis and the 18th century Governor-General of Bengal, India the fort was constructed in 1804, with the aid of the Indian convict labourers during the rule of Colonel R.T. Farquhar. Fort Cornwallis was later rebuilt during the term of Norman Macalister as Governor of Penang as a prospect of defence from pirate attacks, the Kedah and the French during the time of the Napoleonic Wars. This grand fortification was also home to a moat that was said to have been nine metres in width and two meters deep. However, it was later filled in due to a malaria outbreak in the region.

With the passing of time, Fort Cornwallis welcomed many additions to its premises with the likes of a chapel, known as The Chapel at Fort Cornwallis, an open-air amphitheatre, a history gallery and centre that offers souvenirs and handicrafts as memoirs. Furthermore, it also showcases various forms of artillery utilised through the battlements of yesteryear, one being the famed Dutch cannon known as “Seri Rambai Cannon”, which was gifted to the Sultan of Johor by the Dutch in 1606.

To further add to its prestige, Fort Cornwallis was proclaimed an Ancient Monument and Historic Site under the Antiquities Act 168/ 1976 in the year 1977, and has since been one Penang’s most sought after tourist destinations.

Take in the never-ending sights of the seas as one stands atop this mighty Penang attraction and reminisces the time of Captain Light's arrival and the history thereafter.  Visit Fort Cornwallis while taking up accommodation at the delights and comforts of the Traders Hotel, Penang and pamper yourself with an experience of comfort and warmth during your stay.