Description of the attraction
The Balay Besar Pavilion was built in 1735 and is considered one of the most unusual sights of Alor Setar. The pavilion is not open to general visitors, but is used for royal and state ceremonies. Balay Besar is very easy to find and stands next to the central square of Alor Setar.
The Balai Besar Pavilion is very large, supported by tall columns, the top of which is decorated with Victorian carvings. The influence of Thai culture is also noticeable in the decoration of the pavilion (wood carving).
Balay-Besar, or as it is also called - the Hall for receptions, was built by the founder of Alor Setar, Sultan Mohammed Jiva Zaynal Abidin, the 19th sultan of the Sultanate of Kedah. Initially, the pavilion was made of wood, it was located in the palace complex - Kota Setar and was called Balai Rong Seri (audience hall).
Unfortunately, the structure was destroyed by military attacks in 1770 and 1821. In 1896, during the reign of the 26th Sultan of Kedah Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, the building was restored.
The roof of the pavilion was built in the style characteristic of Malay architecture - it is elongated, as it were, reminiscent of a mountain peak. It is worth noting that most Malay houses have such roofs. There are verandas on the left and right sides. The pavilion's pillars and crossbeams were made of sandalwood from the state of Kedah, and the roof was made of palm trees.
In 1904, the pavilion hosted magnificent wedding ceremonies for the daughters and sons of the 26th Sultan of Kedakh. The extravagant celebration lasted three months.
