Did you know that Singapore has an extensive list of National Monuments? Visiting national monuments may sound boring, but you may have visited a few unknowingly.
What is a National Monument?
According to the National Heritage Board, national monuments are an integral part of Singapore’s built heritage and are accorded the highest level of protection in Singapore.
Some well-known national monuments in Singapore are The Istana, Former City Hall and the National Museum of Singapore.
If you’re thinking of what to do in Singapore, why not pick a few national monuments in this list and check out some of Singapore’s most interesting architectures and landmarks. The surrounding neighbourhoods are also a great place to discover hidden eateries and shops.
Masjid Sultan
Start the day at Masjid Sultan, or Sultan Mosque as most may know it. With Haji Lane and Arab Street right in the vicinity, this is one of the most iconic attractions in Bugis.
The mosque allows visitors of any race, religion and nationality to enter the mosque premises and experience what it’s like to be inside.
The mosque was around since 1824. The temple’s dome bases are decorated with glass bottle ends, donated by lower-income Muslims during its construction so that all Muslims, not just the rich, could contribute.
Make sure to explore the quaint shops located along Haji Lane while you’re there.
*Do note that all mosques are closed until March 26th, 2020 to curb the coronavirus from spreading any further. In the meantime, you can enjoy the architecture and grandeur of this beautiful mosque from the outside as well.
Raffles Hotel
A well-known name even before the film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’, Raffles Hotel is one of the most beautiful hotels in Singapore. The hotel has played host to many reputable names such as Charlie Chaplin and Michael Jackson.
Besides the architecture and the fact that its home to Singapore’s most famous cocktail – the Singapore Sling, the hotel has an interesting history. Did you know, during World War II, the hotel was renamed to ‘Syonan Ryokan’, which means Light of the South Hotel.
It was also quite a hit among some unusual visitors, such as a python, wild boar and a circus tiger which found its way to the hotel’s Billiard Room.
While you’re here, besides a few touristy shots of the hotel’s architecture, we suggest paying a visit to some places such as the famous Long Bar. Other options include Gather, a café that specializes in crepes, and Singapore Coffee, where you can grab a kopi cocktail.
St. Andrew’s Cathedral
St Andrew’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican site of worship in Singapore. The previous church building was struck by lightning twice, once in 1845 and once in 1849.
If you have a chance to visit the cathedral in the future, try and touch the walls to see how smooth they are. A material called ‘chunam’ which consists of lime, egg whites, eggshells, coconut shell powder and sugar, among other things is applied to the surface to create a smooth and shiny coating.
St. Andrew’s Cathedral usually has guided tours, but the tours have been suspended until further notice due to the current Covid-19 situation.
*Note: St. Andrew’s Cathedral will be closed for 2 weeks from Mar 18th 11.59 pm to Apr 3rd 11.59 pm.
Old Hill Street Police Station
One of the most eye-catching buildings near Clarke Quay is the Old Hill Street Police Station, which is now home to the Ministry of Communications and Information.
One of the interesting architectural features of this building is how the upper windows on the top floor have a more intense colour compared to the rest of the building.
Remember to snap some photos with the gorgeous and colourful building!
Masjid Jamae (Chulia)
This mosque along South Bridge Road is one of the earliest mosques in Singapore and is painted in a gorgeous shade of mint green. A popular place of worship among Chulia Muslims, you can snap a picture with its signature pair of octagonal minarets that flank the main entrance.
Likewise, do note that all mosques are closed until March 26th, 2020 to curb the coronavirus from spreading any further.
Sri Mariamman Temple
A minute’s walk away from Masjid Jamae, Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Besides the spectacular architecture of the temple, it is also home to an annual event known as Theemithi, or fire-walking festival.
Usually held a week before Deepavali, the ritual sees male devotees walking barefooted across a bed of burning charcoal and a form of thanksgiving in honour of the Hindu goddess, Sri Drowpathai Amman.
The festival was live-streamed on the Facebook page of the Hindu Endowments Board in the past, so you may get to see a glimpse of this festival in the comfort of your home.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Right in the middle of a business district, the Thian Hock Keng Temple along Telok Ayer Street is a well-known tourist attraction. It is also one of the oldest Chinese temples in Singapore.
Right next to the temple is Chong Wen Ge Café, a café that specializes in Peranakan food.
While you’re here, you can check out the Peranakan Tile Gallery as well.
Nagore Dargah
The pastel pink-beige hues of the building remind us of the architecture in Jaipur. Get a shot of yourself standing in front of the Nagore Dargah and you can totally trick your friends that you’re in India.
The building is known as the Nagore Dargah Indian Muslim Heritage Centre now.
Lau Pa Sat
Did you know that Lau Pa Sat is a national monument of Singapore? A famous spot for tourists to enjoy the local dishes of Singapore, Lau Pa Sat is one of the oldest Victorian design structures in South-East Asia.
Apart from its architecture, Lau Pa Sat is a great place to dig into some delicious local foods such as satay.
If you’re intending to visit any of these National Monuments in Singapore, do take note of some restrictions. The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore has extended the closure of all mosques till March 26th.
Make sure to practice social responsibility and stay home if you’re not feeling well. Practice good personal hygiene and social distancing whenever possible.
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