National Museum of Singapore

As I mentioned in my previous blog entry, I was in Singapore as a 100% tourist. I wasn’t there for the cheap-low-prices-mega sales or to be part of the queue outside the LV store; but to explore Singapore as much as possible.

Sad to say that all those times that I was in Singapore was either for meetings or for trainings.

I visited the National Museum of Singapore. I had to admit that their museum is far more advance and beautiful than ours in KL. *Pai Seh*

I was lucky to visit the Museum this time round as it was opened for FREE Admission (normal admission fee is SGD 10) from 24th Dec 08 to 4th Jan 09.

The exterior and interior of the building were just breathtaking.

The Rotunda Dome is the most iconic architectural feature of this museum. It was originally built as the former Raffles Library and Museum in 1887. The museum was restored in 2003 and it is the most extensive conservation project in the building’s history. (Can you see the Dome in the photo above?)

I love this Glass Passage.

It is the only modern intrusion allowed by the authority during the conservation work. This Glass Passage gives a clear view of the Rotunda Dome’s external facades. It was designed to blend into the old neo-Palladian architecture.

The Glass Rotunda

This is the modern interpretation of the Rotunda Dome. It is the signature feature of the museum’s new extension. Awesome, isn’t it?

This Glass Rotunda serves as the main entrance to the Singapore History Gallery.

Here are some other beautiful features in the museum.

I spent about 3 hours in there, just to explore the National Museum. I had my “Companion” (an electronic guide device) with me to explain all the artifacts and treasures in there. This museum is really a good educational place to explore. I've got to learn more about Singapore!

I should have woke up earlier that morning and hit the museum earlier. I didn’t get to explore the other exhibits in there as it was time to meet up with KY.