
Sultan Mosque
Sultan Mosque, also known as Masjid Sultan, is an impressive and prominent mosque in singapore. Located in the historic Kampong Gelam district, this mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. With its massive golden domes and huge prayer hall, Sultan Mosque stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Singapore.
The history of Sultan Mosque dates back to 1824, when it was built for Sultan Hussein Shah, the first sultan of Singapore. The construction of the mosque was supported by Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, who donated S$3,000 for the building of a single-storey structure with a double-tiered roof. At that time, the mosque served as a place of worship for the Muslim community in the area.
However, after a hundred years, the old mosque was in dire need of repair. In 1932, the mosque was rebuilt according to the design of Denis Santry from Swan and Maclaren, Singapore’s oldest architectural firm. The present-day Sultan Mosque that we see today is a result of this reconstruction. During the reconstruction, an interesting fact came to light—the construction of North Bridge Road was actually forced to bend around the mosque as it was extended beyond Arab Street. This shows the significance and influence of Sultan Mosque in shaping the surrounding area.
One of the most distinctive features of Sultan Mosque is its onion-shaped domes. These domes are adorned with glass bottle ends, which were donated by lower-income Muslims during the construction of the mosque. This unique feature allowed all Muslims, regardless of their financial status, to contribute to the construction of the mosque. It is a testament to the inclusivity and unity of the Muslim community in Singapore.
In 1975, Sultan Mosque was gazetted as a national monument, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. The mosque has become a focal point for the Muslim community in Singapore, serving as a place of worship and a symbol of their faith. It is also an important cultural landmark in the city, attracting visitors from all over the world.
If you visit Sultan Mosque during the holy month of Ramadan, you will have the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the night market in the area. The night market offers a wide variety of food stalls, where you can indulge in traditional Malay and Middle Eastern delicacies. The mosque becomes even more lively during this time, as Muslims gather for prayers and break their fast together.
To enhance your visit to Sultan Mosque, you can join one of the mosque’s informative guided tours. The guides are fluent in English, Malay, Chinese, and even Japanese, ensuring that visitors from different backgrounds can fully understand and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the mosque. These guided tours provide insights into the architectural features of the mosque, as well as the traditions and practices of the Muslim community in Singapore.
In conclusion, Sultan Mosque is a magnificent religious building that reflects the rich cultural and religious heritage of Singapore. Its history, architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-visit attraction in the Kampong Gelam district. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling mosque, Sultan Mosque offers a unique and enriching experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this iconic landmark and learn more about the Muslim community in Singapore.
Address And Location:
3 Muscat Street, Singapore 198833
SG
Operating Hours
Monday to Thursday 10am–noon, 2–4pm
Closed on Friday
Saturday & Sunday 10am–noon, 2–4pm
3 Muscat Street, Singapore 198833
SG
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