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Located near the second exit
from the North-South Expressway to Seremban, this state
cultural handicraft complex stands out for the Minangkabau
architectural styles of its three main buildings namely the Teratak Perpatih, Istana Ampang Tinggi and Rumah Minang.
Built initially for a Quran Recital Competition, the
Teratak Perpatih is now the State Museum displaying the
historical roots and matrilineal traditions of Negeri
Sembilan including artifacts, ancient tools, crafts
collection as well as traditional costumes and jewelry
but its stunning array of buffalo horn shaped roof is
the most easily recognizable.
The Istana Ampang Tinggi is
a royal palace originally built in 1865 in Kampung
Ampang Tinggi and its glory days was the scene of much
royal splendor. Made entirely out the wood, with fine
wall carvings and a pair of heavy sliding doors, the
palace was rebuilt here and remains sturdy to this day.
It houses historical artifacts such as weapons,
brassware and silverware and a fabliau portraying a
grand royal wedding.
The landscaped park grounds also
incorporate elements of cultural heritage like Rumah
Minang which depict an actual Minangkabau traditional
house and stone megaliths from Port Kempas. Near it are
three seven-foot megaliths shaped like a spoon, a helm
and a sword that are said to glow at night other
prominent elements of Minangkabau influence in the state
can be found not only in the architecture of buildings
but also in dances and food.
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