Few things are more synonymous with Singapore than Merlions. The image of a half-fish half-lion hybrid is the national personification of Singapore, and a widely utilised marketing icon as well.
History
The park was a project that was spearheaded by the Singapore Tourism Board, which opened to the public in September 1972. The original Merlion statue at this time was situated at the mouth of the Singapore River.
Relocation of the Statue
After the Esplanade Bridge was built in 1997, the statue was obscured by it and was no longer visible from the waterfront. It was therefore relocated to a purpose-built pier on the other side of the bridge. The total cost of this came to $7.5 million.
The Second Merlion
Recently a Merlion cub was added to the base of the statue, and measures only two-feet in height compared to the 8.6 metres of the original.
The Park at Dusk
If you’re staying at one of many 5 star hotels in Orchard Road Singapore quite close to the park, such as Grand Park Orchard, consider visiting the park at night. This is when you can experience the true beauty of this urban space, and explore the many shops and cafés in the area.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
