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 Penang is filled with kongsi's. A kongsi is a clan house or meeting hall which also acts as a small temple for Chinese of the same clan or surname. The elaborate Khoo Kongsi is by far the grandest on the island. Also known as the Dragon Mountain Hall, it features ornate wood carvings and gilt work, coloured tiles and elaborate friezes of dragons, phoenixes and deities. Construction began around 1853 but was interrupted until it was finally finished in 1898.
The building was so magnificent that on its completion, the roof caught fire. Some believe this was because of its resemblance to the Emperor's palace. The Khoo's interpreted this as a message to rebuild the clan house in a less grandiose style.
Opening hours:
9am to 5pm - Mondays to Fridays
Saturdays 9am to 1pm
Permission to enter must be obtained from the Kongsi office.
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