The two most prominent Christian churches in Penang harking back to colonial times:

• Church of the Assumption – The first church founded in Penang, constructed in 1786 as part of establishing the British trading post. This Catholic church (the third oldest in Malaysia) was then moved in 1857 to its present location with the ability to seat 1,200 worshippers. In 1955 the Vatican decreed it to be a cathedral. Nowadays it is one of the key Catholic churches in Malaysia.

• St. George’s Anglican Church – Built in 1818, it is the oldest Anglican church in Malaysia. An interesting mesh of architectural designs (principally Neo-Classical), the original church was built by Indian slaves during the British colonial days. Partially destroyed by the Japanese Occupation during World War II, restorations have returned it to top form (including the latest efforts in 2007). In 2007, the building was classified as one of Malaysia’s 50 National Treasures, as well as a National Heritage site.