The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple (or "Temple of Clear Clouds") at Jalan Tokong, Malacca, is the most venerable and maybe the grandest Chinese temple in Malaysia.

Founded some time in the 17th century, the building's materials were sourced from China, as were its workers, who created a beautiful temple in the southern Chinese style. The main shrine hall uses no nails whatsoever - nails are unlucky in Chinese culture - which makes the majesty of Cheng Hoon Teng's structure even more impressive.

Cheng Hoon Teng was somewhat incongruously used by the Dutch-nominated leaders of the Chinese community as their court of justice. The central altar is dedicated, maybe appropriately in such a historically war-affected place, to the Goddess of Mercy.

Christ Church is one of the stops on our Walking Tour through Historical Melaka.