3 of Singapore’s Historic Buildings
New toys and old treasures
The way people view Singapore now, is very different from the past. Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade, Merlion and others highlights of Singapore are what people go to nowadays. However, within Singapore’s boarders, there are a lot of historical buildings, buildings that stood their ground long before the Singapore we know today.
Victoria Theatre
Old speeches, vintage dances
The Victoria Theater is one of the oldest buildings in Singapore. Constructed between 1855 and 1862, it was then served as a venue for meetings, dances and social functions. It was then closed down for a 4-year renovation before reopening in the year 2014.
The “Iron Man”
The eight-foot-tall bronze figure of Sir Stanford Raffles was a work of fame by British sculptor-cum-poet Thomas Woolner. The figure was nicknamed “orang besi” or “iron man” and it stands gorgeously in front of the Victoria Theatre entrance.
Let the show begin
After the renovation, dance and music rooms were added and the place is mainly used for concerts and other performances. The interior design also gives off an exquisite feel.
St. Andrew's Cathedral
Founder's Plan
Sir Stanford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, had a vision of Singapore’s future and wanted to build a church in the heart of the city. Hence, he set aside a location near the current location of the Esplanade for a church and the foundation stone of the original St. Andrew’s church was then laid in the year 1835.
After the end, there’s a new beginning
St. Andrew’s Church was unfortunately closed down due to safety hazards as it was struck by lightning, twice. Fortunately, on 4 March 1856, the foundation stone of the present building was laid and it was like a fresh start for the church, now known as St. Andrew’s Cathedral.
Peace and calm
St. Andrew’s Cathedral is currently a well-visited place by tourists and lots of other people. With various books and bibles available for the public to read in a peaceful and calm environment.
CHIJMES
Old school
Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (CHIJ) was what CHIJMES was, a premier girl’s school established in 1854. After the school was relocated, the old site was redeveloped to the Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC) while the remaining complex includes Caldwell House, the chapel called CHIJMES Hall and the orphanage building. There are also lots of retail, food and beverage outlets in the vicinity.
Modern yet classy
CHIJMES was not only well known for it’s chapel and the wedding ceremonies held there, but also the various restaurants and bars behind the chapel. The place lights up at night and people start to crowd in, whether to have a meal or just to relax and listen to the songs by singers that sang them through the night. It is a well-known place for friends and families to hang out.
Do visit these place when you have the time!
