The Sri Mariamman Temple was built in 1827. This makes it the oldest Hindu temple in all of Singapore. Originally, it was called the Kling Street Temple or the Mariamman Kovil and was used for immigrant worshipers from South India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. She is believed to be able to cure diseases.

The temple was made of wood an attap at South Bridge Road. It was inspired by a clerk with the British East India Company called Mr. Naraina Pillai. He accompanied the founder of Singapore to the area in 1819. He installed a deity called Sinna Amman at the temple. This deity is now visible in the main sanctum in the temple today.

It was not until 1843 that a building was made using brick and plaster. By the late 1800s, the gopuram or grand tower entrance was built. It did not have extreme ornamentations on it, and the building has remained the same pretty much ever since though it was developed by Indian craftsmen. There were some portions of the building that were rebuilt and restored in the 1930s. It took 119 years for it to be developed and built up again in 1962. This is when the intricate sculptures on the outside were added.

The temple is now a national monument in Singapore. It is still used for worship and community activities. In Colonial times, it was the Hindu Registry of Marriages. This is the only temple that was authorized to solemnize these marriages.

The exterior of the temple is noted for its ornate sculptures of mythical beasts, deities, and soldiers. These colorful sculptures make it one of the most astonishing buildings in Singapore.

Its most recent renovation came about in 2010 when each of the stone sculptures were brightly repainted. There are six full tiers of the deities and beings. One of the most exciting aspects of visiting the Sri Mariamman Temple is taking them all in and trying to spot the various figures some of whom are British Raj soldiers.

This temple gives visitors a glimpse at the history it has in the area. It was once a refugee center for South Indian Tamil Hindus before it became a place of worship with significance. It still hosts many religious services and celebrations. It attracts many tourists. Professional tour guides are available to take visitors around the entire temple. Need more tips? Contact us here.

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