Merlion Park (鱼尾狮公园)
Overview
The Merlion is a captivating mythical creature, featuring the head of a lion and the body of a fish, proudly positioned in the heart of Merlion Park in Central Singapore. This iconic statue serves as a powerful symbol of the city-state, seamlessly blending its rich maritime heritage with its contemporary urban landscape.
The story of the Merlion began in 1964 when it was envisioned by the late Mr. Fraser Brunner, a British zoologist and member of the Souvenir Committee. Designed to be the emblem of the Singapore Tourism Board, then known as the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board, the Merlion embodies Singapore’s roots as a fishing village called Temasek, which translates to "sea town" in Old Javanese. The lion head symbolizes Singapura, meaning "Lion City" in Sanskrit, a name bestowed by Prince Sang Nila Utama after he spotted what he thought to be a lion upon landing on the island.
In 1972, the statue was finalized and sculpted by renowned local artist Mr. Lim Nang Seng. Working alongside his eight children, Mr. Lim dedicated nearly nine months to perfecting the sculpture. Standing at an impressive 8.6 meters tall and weighing 70 tons, the Merlion is crafted from cement fondue and adorned with small porcelain plates and bowls, creating a unique texture that gleams under the sun.
Initially, the Merlion was installed at the mouth of the Singapore River, where it majestically spouted water into the waterway. This prime location was chosen for its historical importance as a hub of trade and a vital waterway during Singapore’s early days as a bustling port city.
However, in 1997, the construction of the Esplanade Bridge obstructed the view of the Merlion from the Marina Bay waterfront, prompting discussions about its relocation. After careful consideration, the statue was moved to its current site at Merlion Park near the One Fullerton hotel on April 23, 2002. The meticulous relocation process took three days, ensuring the statue was transported as a single piece to preserve its integrity.
Today, Merlion Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to capture stunning photographs and admire the majestic statue. The park also features a smaller, two-meter-tall Merlion cub, affectionately known as the Merlion's Cub, also designed by Mr. Lim Nang Seng, which complements its larger counterpart.
The grandeur and symbolism of the Merlion continue to resonate with both residents and tourists, encapsulating Singapore's vibrant heritage and dynamic spirit. Whether you visit during the day to see it shimmer in the sunlight or at night when the city lights of Marina Bay create a magical backdrop, the Merlion remains an enduring emblem of Singapore, showcasing the nation’s harmonious blend of traditional roots and modern aspirations.