singapore is a country that is rich in history and culture, and one of its most iconic landmarks is the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles. This white polymarble statue stands proudly at the Singapore River, with its arms folded and a thoughtful expression on its face. It has become a popular spot for both tourists and locals to take selfies and capture the beauty of the Singapore skyline in the background.

The statue is located at the historic Raffles Landing Site, where Sir Stamford Raffles is believed to have first set foot on the island in 1819. This site holds great significance in Singapore’s history as it marks the founding of the city-state. The statue itself is a copy of the original dark bronze statue, which was placed here in 1972 on the 150th anniversary of Singapore’s founding.

If you want to see the original statue, you can take a short stroll to Victoria Memorial Hall at Empress Place. This much older statue was sculpted by renowned English sculptor and poet Thomas Woolner and was unveiled on Jubilee Day on 27 June 1887. It is a testament to the rich history and heritage of Singapore.

The Raffles Statue holds many interesting stories and trivia. One of them is that it was nicknamed “orang besi” or “iron man” in Malay when it was first unveiled. This nickname reflects the strong and enduring image of Sir Stamford Raffles in the history of Singapore.

Another interesting fact is that the first statue was relocated from its original location at the Padang in 1919. It was often hit by flying footballs during games, and spectators at the Padang enjoyed sitting at its base for a good view. The relocation of the statue did not diminish its importance or significance in the eyes of the Singaporean people.

During the Japanese Occupation, the statue was moved to the Syonan Museum, which was the former Raffles Museum and is now known as the National Museum of Singapore. There were rumors that the Japanese intended to melt the statue for its bronze, but thankfully, it was reinstalled at Empress Place in 1946 after the war ended. This shows the resilience and determination of the Singaporean people to preserve their history and culture.

Today, the Raffles Statue is not only a national icon but also a symbol of modern Singapore. It serves as a reminder of the city-state’s humble beginnings and the visionary leadership of Sir Stamford Raffles. The statue has become a popular image on various souvenirs and is often depicted in a cheeky manner, reflecting the playful nature of Singaporeans.

In conclusion, the Raffles Statue in Singapore is a significant landmark that holds great historical and cultural value. It represents the founding of the city-state and the enduring legacy of Sir Stamford Raffles. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious tourist, a visit to the statue is a must to truly appreciate the rich heritage of Singapore. So next time you find yourself in Singapore, take a moment to visit the Raffles Statue and immerse yourself in the history and culture of this vibrant city-state.

Address And Location:

Raffles Landing Site
59 Boat Quay, Singapore 049859
SG

Raffles Landing Site
59 Boat Quay, Singapore 049859
SG

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