Monday, April 16, 2012

Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan

The Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan is the most recognised structure in Teluk Intan. It was strategically erected at the town centre . The tower was built in 1885 by a contractor, Mr. Leong Choon Chong.

Originally housed the water tank that supply water to the town area and reserve during drought and fire. It was also used to report time and served as a beacon to guide ship into Teluk Anson Port.

The tower drew comparison with the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. Standing at only 25m with 110 steps, it is not as tall compared to the Leaning Tower of Pisa which stand at 55m.

The tower have a pagoda shaped desgin. Although it looks like an eight storey tower, the circular brick structure is actually just three storey high. The structure is made of wood and brick. The base of the tower is 13m in diameter against 8.2m in diameter at the top.

Now, the Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan serve as a clock tower. The chiming clock which was installed in 1894 was bought from London and designed by J.W. Benson-Ludgathy.

 
 
 
The view of the tower is much more spectacular at night as it is illuminated with four different colours of LED lights at a few seconds interval.

Unfortunately, the access to the tower is currently closed for maintenance work. I heard there is a little display of the tower's history inside.

2 comments:

wenn said...

wow, it looks great at night!

Robo said...

Nice! Especially at night...