The Oldest Museum In The Lion City: National Museum Of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is the oldest and largest museum in Singapore that was established in the late 1800's. With its humble beginnings as a library during the colonial rule, it has since expanded it reach and at present aims to showcase the birth and development of the Lion City to its present day glory. It is a must visit destination in Singapore for anyone wanting to learn about the fascinating history of the Garden City.
National Museum of Singapore: Quick Facts
- Other Names: Singapore History Museum (1993-2006), Raffles Library and Museum (1849-1965)
- Year of opening: 1849
- Timings: 10 AM - 7 PM, daily
- Architect: Henry E. McCallum
- Architectural style: Neo-Palladian
Why Is The National Museum of Singapore Famous?
- The National Museum of Singapore displays numerous important artefacts which show the history of Singapore. One such artefact is the Singapore Stone which has inscriptions that are said to be dating as far back as the 13th century.
- The Museum was declared as a national monument of Singapore in 1992, by the National Heritage Board.
- The National Museum of Singapore grants free entry to all Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Additionally, senior citizens and children below the age of 7 get discounted/free entry irrespective of their nationality.
- National Museum of Singapore hosts frequent events and temporary exhibitions that are both educational and entertaining for the whole family, making it a great attraction to visit in Singapore.
National Museum of Singapore's History & Architecture
History of National Museum of Singapore
- The National Museum of Singapore was first opened as an extension of the library at the Singapore Institution in 1849. Back then it was referred to as the Raffles Library and Museum.
- In 1863, the library/museum was relocated to the Town Hall. It was in 1882 that a decision was made to create an independent building for the museum.
- The building officially opened its door in 1887 and was chalked out to be a museum for zoology specimens.
- After almost a century, the museum was to become a separate entity from the Raffles Institution in 1960. By 1965, around the independence of Singapore, the museum shifted its focus to showcase the history and development of Singapore through the years.
- After several relocations, renovations, and back-and-forth over its name, the National Museum of Singapore stands as an iconic landmark on Stamford Road, Singapore.
Architecture of National Museum of Singapore
- While the Raffles Library and Museum did technically exist before the construction of the building, it was still an extension of the Singapore Institution.
- In 1884, work began to create a separate building for the library. The library was designed by the Colonial Architect Sir H.E. McCallum in a Neo-Palladian silhouette and was inaugurated in 1887.
- At the start of the 1900's the popularity of the museum and it needed to be expanded in order to house its growing collection; and so the Singapore government made the decision to expand the museum rather than relocating.
- The first major renovation was completed in 1907 which added a second parallel block to the back of the museum, thus keeping the main facade of the building intact. In 1961 an additional wing was added to expand the museum.
- The latest renovation of the National Museum of Singapore took place from 2003 to 2006 during which time the museum was temporarily shifted to Riverside Point. Through it all, the museum kept its 19th century architecture untouched.
Things To Do At National Museum of Singapore
Explore Exhibitions
The National Museum of Singapore has several immersive exhibitions and programs that are spread through the year that are both entertaining and educational. Check out what's happening at the museum this year.
Exhibtions At National Museum Singapore
Drink & Dine
If you feel peckish during your visit to the National Museum of Singapore, you can head to one of the three eateries inside the museum. Whether you want a snack to grab and go, or a fine dining experience, you'll find both here.
National Museum of Singapore Restaurants
Shop
Supermama is the in-house gift shop at the National Museum of Singapore. Browse and buy handcrafted homeware and souvenirs by local artists. Not only do they look classy, but you'll be supporting local artists.
Know MorePlan Your Visit To National Museum of Singapore
Check out our detailed visitor's guide to National Museum of Singapore for the best time to visit, visitor tips, and other helpful information.
The National Museum of Singapore is located in Downtown Singapore, right next to the Fort Canning Hill, which makes it easily accessible via public and private transport.
National Museum of Singapore Address: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897 | Find on Map
Nearby Landmarks: Peranakan Museum, YMCA @ One Orchard
Getting To National Museum of Singapore
National Museum of Singapore opening hours are as follows:
Monday - Sunday: 10 AM - 7 PM
Last entry to the Glass Rotunda is by 6:15 PM. All other galleries is by 6:30 PM.
Quite Mornings take place on the first Saturday, as well as the first and third Thursday of every month. National Museum of Singapore opens at 9 AM during Quite Mornings.
Best Time To Visit National Museum of SingaporeBook Tickets To National Museum of Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions About The National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum of the nation and is a national monument of Singapore. It shows the history and development of the Lion City through its galleries and exhibitions.
National Museum of Singapore is located in 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897 | Find on Map
National Museum of Singapore opening hours are Monday - Sunday: 10 AM - 7 PM. On Quite Mornings the museum will open at 9 AM.
National Museum of Singapore offers you the chance to learn the history and development of the bustling nation of Singapore over the years through its various artefacts and exhibitions.
If you are a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, you have free admission to the National Museum of Singapore. If you are a tourist visiting Singapore, you can book your tickets online.
National Museum of Singapore offers free entry to Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Tourists can purchase National Museum of Singapore tickets online starting at SGD 15.
National Museum of Singapore was designed by colonial architect Henry E. McCallum.
The National Museum of Singapore’s independent building was inaugurated in 1887. Since then it has undergone multiple renovations and expansions over the years.
The National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in Singapore and houses galleries containing artefacts that showcase the development of Singapore. It has been named as a national monument of Singapore by the National Heritage Board.
Yes, the National Museum of Singapore offers visitors a chance to learn about the fascinating history of Singapore in a welcoming and immersive environment, making it an attraction worth visiting while you are in Singapore.