7 Iconic Landmarks That Capture Singapore’s Colonial History

Singapore is a city that timely has a touch of the modern skyscraper look with the traditional old-world appeal. Famous for its architecture and multiculturalism, the Lion City also has a number of heritage sites, which give a glimpse of the colonial days when Singapore was a leading British trading centre. In the middle of the modern buildings and the dense network of streets and avenues, you can observe historical and architectural masterpieces of colonial style. These places are not just historical – they are historical landmarks that provide insight into the transformation of Singapore from a British colony into an independent nation with a fusion of the two. 

In particular, for those who love to travel with history and contemporary side by side, it is recommended to visit these colonial sites. These areas include hotels, parks and structures which date back to the early years of the city while the city continues to progress forward. Every place has its history, and learning them enhances your experience with this vibrant city. Therefore, if you are history inclined, a history lover, or just plain curious, then these sites are worth checking out. To make the most of your Singapore holiday packages from Dubai, opt for one of the Singapore tour packages, which frequently also incorporate guided tours of these historical landmarks, so you won’t miss a thing! 

Here are the 7 Iconic Landmarks That Capture Singapore’s Colonial History 

1. Raffles Hotel 

Raffles Hotel being a name that is associated with luxury and history. This hotel was founded in 1887 and is still popular among guests, and has always been a part of the history of Singapore as a colony. The building has a colonial British architectural design and the interior design also looks like it was taken from a different era. Today it is among the most popular tourist attractions in the city; if only to take a tour of the hotel, or even only visit the Long Bar where the Singapore Sling was created. 

2. The Fullerton Building 

Fullerton building is, however, operating today and is currently known as The Fullerton Hotel. It was opened in 1928 as the General Post Office; therefore, it would have been rather busy during the colonial times. The structure of the building is neoclassical, ornamental columns and stonework representing the elegance of the colonial period have been retained. It’s an interesting place for an evening out or a guided tour if you are on a Singapore holiday overload on history and elegance. 

3. Fort Canning Park 

Basically, Fort Canning Park is an intermingling of nature and history. In the past, it was inhabited by Malay kings and during the colonial period it housed a naval base and a headquarters. Today, you can walk through the territory of the park and see the traces of the past: cannons, bunkers, and even markers. It is a great place for a leisurely walk or a picnic with a touch of history making your visit very interesting. 

4. Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall 

Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall can be included in the list of oldest performing arts venues in Singapore. Designed in 1862, it has striking colonial design with high pitched roofs and white wooden framed architectural designs with pillars. It was employed for official ceremonies during the colonial days, and is still a major center for the arts in the present. If history and architectural touch is your thing then watching a show here or if you don’t want to watch a show then simply admiring the architecture here will give you a feel of Singapore’s colonial past. 

5. St. Andrew’s Cathedral 

The oldest and biggest Anglican cathedral of Singapore called St. Andrew’s Cathedral reflects the spirit of colonial Gothic architecture. It was built in 1861 and has a white exterior with two tall turrets at the top of the building. The church is still operational to date and when you visit the church, there is an agreeable serene environment. This place is a quiet park in the middle of the city and a great place to explore Singapore’s colonial religious architectural past. 

6. CHIJMES 

The Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus or CHIJMES was once a church and is now a popular space for dining, drinking and entertainment. The building is a Gothic type of architecture, the arched doors and windows, the stained glass, all speak of days that were long gone. Walking through the hall and the yard of this building is also a way to look at the colonial history of America through the prism of the present, social concept. As I said earlier, visiting CHIJMES is a blend of history, good food and fun! 

7. Old Parliament House (The Arts House) 

The building commonly referred to as the Old Parliament House and currently called The Arts House is Singapore’s oldest surviving government structure. Erected in 1827, it served as the government center for more than one hundred years. Today it is a center which hosts art exhibitions, events and workshops. It also offers you a feel on the political development of Singapore and for this reason, it is a place that should not be missed. 

Conclusion: 

Singapore’s colonial architecture tells a rather interesting tale of survival, development and acculturation. Not only do these sites document the British colonial history of the city, but they also demonstrate that Singapore has grown from this past to become an international city. Exploring these landmarks such as hotels and cathedrals and government buildings which the tourists get to see here gives a glimpse of Singapore’s transformation from being a British colony to an independent modern country. The landmarks provide a feeling of pride and the tour to these places is an educating experience for travellers. 

For anyone that wants to find the old Singapore while experiencing the new, these colonial architecture buildings are a must visit. When selecting one of the numerous Singapore tour packages, you can learn additional information about the history and the design of this incredible city with the help of the local guides. Discovering these cultural gems will make you understand the cultural richness of Singapore and the country’s view on history making unforgettable impressions after you leave.