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Singapore boasts of several landmarks worthy of visit. Besides a well-developed shopping destination, Singapore offers several historical places to visit.
Chijmes
Pronounced ‘chimes', this gothic architectural wonder is a national heritage site. Chijmes Hall is the restored chapel which is the site of many musicals, recitals and theatrical performances. Chijmes had once been a cloistered convent, one of the last of its kind. Nowadays it is an important landmark of Singapore and offers dining, shopping, leisure and entertainment opportunities.
Dalhousie Obelisk
Marquis Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India, visited Singapore in 1850. To mark this importance occasion, an obelisk was erected on the banks of the Singapore River. Situated near Empress Place, the Dalhousie Obelisk is an excellent photography location.
Istana
Istana is the current residence of the President of Singapore and its expansive grounds are open to visitors five times a year. It is built on an old nutmeg plantation and its architectural style is a mix of Roman Classical, Victorian Renaissance, Gothic, Chinese, Malay and other ethnic influences. Once home of the British Crown representative, the stately gardens of the palace have been planted with rare species of plants by the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Old Parliament House
A bronze elephant statue greets visitors to the stately colonial building that once housed Singapore's elected parliament. The elephant was a gift from King Chulalongkom of Siam in 1871 and braces the entrance to Singapore's oldest government building, built in 1827 by George Coleman. The charming colonial structure has been renamed The Art House and is now home to cutting edge contemporary visual arts, music, dance, film, comedy and theater by local and international artists. The House also features an interesting exhibition in the Corridors of Time on the life and times of the building and the many personalities associated with it.
Lau Pa Sat
Built in 1894, Lau Pa Sat is the largest Victorian filigree cast-iron structure in Southeast Asia. It is a popular meeting spot and is situated in the heart of business district. Originally a wet market, Lau Pa Sat has been restored and is now a favorite food hall offering a wide variety of traditional cuisine in old world ambience.
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