Merlion Park: Urban Landmark and Cultural Symbol

Merlion Park is one of Singapore's iconic attractions, located on reclaimed land next to One Fullerton. It is Singapore's smallest park. The park features an 8.6m tall, 70-ton Merlion statue, created by sculptor Lim Nang Seng in 1972. The Merlion is a mythical creature with a lion's head and a fish's body, inspired by Singapore's historical legends. The lion head represents the "Lion City," while the fish tail symbolizes Singapore's transformation from a fishing port to a trading port. The park was originally established beside Anderson Bridge but was relocated to its current location in 2002 due to surrounding buildings blocking the view. The new park covers 0.25 hectares, more than 30 times larger than the old one. It features an open-air viewing deck for visitors to take photos with the Merlion and hosts art performances and entertainment activities. The park also has shops and dining establishments for visitors' convenience. During the day, Merlion Park showcases its captivating water-spouting presence against the backdrop of modern architecture. At night, illuminated by lights, it becomes a tranquil spot in the bustling city. Visitors can admire the silhouettes of the city's financial center, including The Fullerton Hotel and Marina Bay Sands. The park is open 24 hours with free admission, making it an excellent destination to understand Singapore's history and culture.