KUALA LUMPUR - preview gallery
the area of kuala lumpur was settled since around 1840 by malay and chinese people - yet only after 1957, when 'k.l.' became the capital of malaysia, grew it to a very large city. its population is now 1780000.
there are two railway stations in k.l., built in a pompous traditional style, similar to other official buildings of k.l.'s history.
anything from huge governmental pieces to small sets of houses, usually run-down, with local shopping facilities, can be seen in the old center.
a variety of mosques have been built in 'classic' style as well (malaysia has many muslim buidings because it is predominantly an islamic society).
very different is of course a hindu temple - in its style, in colours, and in the many many figures shown.
a completely different style can be seen in the chinese temples (which are quite common in k.l.).
in k.l., classical and new architecture often stands right beside each other. in the current big city very modern buildings are clearly dominating.
even the latest mosque is a very modern design. the same is true for k.l.'s chief theatre.
k.l. has several botanical gardens, well-known for the 'arty' buildings there, as well as animals and plants.
presenting k.l.'s art museum is beyond this report - yet one piece is shown here, a bird which is like a music instrument.
at the end of this gallery comes what is - - at least in my view - - the most special and most unusual building of k.l., the terrific petronas towers, completed 1997.
true, they are not the highest tower anymore, 'only' 452-meter, nor the highest office building yet still the tallest twin buildings in the world.. beside that - they are simply art!
inside, in the entry hall, is a colourful shopping center. finally: the truly striking view at night.
