Round Tower, Kuching

The Round Tower is a distinctive building, built in 1886 following a devastating inferno that razed much of the structures between Carpenter Street and Main Bazaar. It was used as the town dispensary to complement the medical headquarters housed within The Pavilion next door. It is commonly - and mistakenly - believed that The Round Tower was a fortress, especially with its strategic location, appearance and the narrow windows. This is however, not the intention of the building, but rather a coincidence of the design.

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This odd looking building with rounded sides stands out along Jalan Tun Haji Openg is called the Round Tower, was built as a fort in 1886 and later used as a dispensary. Today, it is where the Sarawak Craft Council set their headquarters.

The building is well preserved and reopened in 2003 after restoration works. You can find many local arts & craft on display and for sale here. You can even watch some demonstration of the locals making the handicrafts

Part of Kuching heritage, the Round Tower was constructed in 1886. However, the reason for its construction remains a mystery. It is believed that the building was meant to serve as a fort in an emergency due to it fotress like structure. Moreover, there are holes in its wall small enough to aim weapons from inside.

It was turned into a dispensary and was then used by the Labour Department until 1980 before being turned to house a section of the Judicary department. Now, it is part of the upgraded Court House Complex for tourism related activities.

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The Round Tower was originally planned as a fort when it was built in 1886, but used as a dispensary. Today it is part of the Courthouse Complex and is the headquarters of the Sarawak Craft Council.