The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion,
George Town,
Malaysia

The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, often referred to as the "Blue Mansion" due to its distinctive indigo-blue color, is a historic building located in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. It was built by Cheong Fatt Tze, a prominent Chinese merchant, and politician, in the late 19th century.

Born in Guangdong, China, in 1840, Cheong Fatt Tze was a self-made tycoon who established his fortune through various business ventures in Southeast Asia. He was known as the "Rockefeller of the East" and served as a diplomat for the Qing Dynasty.

The mansion was constructed in the 1880s and completed in 1904. It served as Cheong Fatt Tze's private residence and as the seat of his business empire. The mansion is an outstanding example of the architectural style known as Straits Eclectic, which combines Eastern and Western design elements. It features Chinese porcelain work, Gothic louvered windows, Stoke-on-Trent floor tiles, and Glasgow cast iron works. The mansion includes 38 rooms, 5 courtyards, 7 staircases, and 220 windows. The central courtyard, with its traditional Chinese air well, provides ventilation and natural light. The mansion was built using lime plaster mixed with natural blue dye from the indigo plant, giving it its iconic blue hue.

By the 1980s, the mansion had fallen into disrepair. A major restoration project was initiated in the 1990s by a group of heritage conservationists, led by Laurence Loh. The project aimed to restore the mansion to its former glory while preserving its historical authenticity. The restoration efforts earned several accolades, including UNESCO’s Most Excellent Project in the Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards in 2000.

Today, the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion operates as a boutique hotel and museum. It offers guided tours that provide insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the mansion. It is also a popular filming location and has been featured in several movies and television series, including the 1993 Oscar-winning film "Indochine."

The mansion is a symbol of Penang's rich multicultural heritage and stands as a testament to the region's historical significance in trade and commerce. It is one of Penang's most visited tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world who are interested in history, architecture, and heritage conservation.

The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion remains a key landmark in George Town, reflecting the city's diverse cultural influences and its historical role as a trading hub.