Fort Canning Park & the Orchard Road

As early as the 14th century, Fort Canning Park was the half-mythical seat of the Malay kings. When Singapore entered its colonial period, the hill once more came to play a part, this time as a military facility. In the period 1861-1926, there was a fort there, named Fort Canning. Today not much is left, apart from the name Canning Park. From 1926, the present Fort Canning Center housed military barracks, and its “Battle Box” bunker served as the British command post in Singapore during the 2nd World War. Today, the area is a park with many facilities. Its highlights include two Gothic Gates from the mid- 19th century, the ASEAN Sculpture Park, with a sculpture from each of the ASEAN nations, and garden facilities such as the Spice Garden.

Orchard Road is modern Singapore’s epicenter for shopping and restaurants. Orchard Road’s new high-rises are a fascinating contrast to the city’s ethnic quarters, such as Little India and Chinatown. A trip to Orchard Road is a must when visiting Singapore.