102389 Built in 1835, The Armenian Church on Hill Street is the oldest Christian church in Singapore.
102390 Designed by Irish architect George Coleman, the church is regarded as Coleman’s masterpiece and is dedicated to St Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian monk.
102391 Take a walk in its lush gardens before entering the church and admire the exterior architecture.
102392 A tall spire tops the building, while Doric columns, bordered by balustrades on both sides, sustain the white portico.
102393 As you step in, also look up at the vaulted ceiling and cupola – elements based on traditional Armenian Church architecture.
102394 This spiritual place serves as a tribute to the once influential Armenian community of Singapore.
102395 Famous Armenians in Singapore included the Sarkies brothers who built and managed the Raffles Hotel, Agnes Joaquim who hybridised the orchid Vanda “Miss Joaquim” (named as Singapore’s national flower), and Catchick Moses, who co-founded the national newspaper The Straits Times.
102398 Step into one of the oldest temples in Singapore, the Veeramakaliamman Temple, which was built by Indian pioneers who came to work and live in this city.
102399 You’ll notice the images of the goddess Sri Veeramakaliamman, the chief deity of the temple.
102400 Known as a destroyer of evil, her presence answered an important need of the early migrants – to feel secure in a new land.
102401 During World War II when there were air raids, many took refuge here in this temple.