Raffles' Landing Site
1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore, 179429
A 20-foot (6-meter) white marble statue of Sir Stamford Raffles, backed by the skyscrapers of modern Singapore, marks the spot where the British statesman was believed to have landed in 1819 in the area today known as Boat Quay. The founder of Singapore would go on to sign a treaty establishing the sovereign city-state.
The Basics
The Raffles' Landing Site, located on the banks of the Singapore River, ranks among the country’s most historically significant attractions; it’s included in just about every Singapore highlights tour, along with other popular points of interest like the Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, and Little India. History aside, the statue sits an open outdoor space that provides a great view of the buildings across the river, as well as an opportunity to take a quiet walk and relax along the waterfront.
Things to Know Before You Go
The landing site is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to Singapore.
Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, as the area offers little in the way of shade.
City tours that stop at the landing site last anywhere from three hours to a full day.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Raffles' Landing Site is to take the metro to Raffles Place station and leave through Exit H.
When to Get There
Raffles' Landing Site is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Since the site lacks much in the way of shade or shelter, it’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon when it’s not too hot.
Where to See the Original Statue
The current statue at Raffles' Landing Site is actually a copy; it was erected in 1969 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Singapore’s founding. The original bronze statue, sculpted by Thomas Woolner, is now on display outside the Victoria Concert Hall at Empress Place.
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