The National Museum of Singapore is among the leading attractions that are daily frequented by many globetrotters to Singapore. Things to see and do may be plenty in this vibrant region, but a visit to the National Museum is bound to be enlightening if not exciting. The oldest museum in Singapore, it boasts a history dating back to 1887. A custodian of the 11 National Treasures, the National Museum comprises Living Galleries that adopt modern and diverse forms of presenting history and culture, redefining the conventional museum experience.

One of the country’s four national museums, the museum has an iconic structure which is a blend of ancient and modern styles. First established as the Raffles library and museum, it possesses an elegant neo-classical building which is flawlessly joined by a cutting-edge extension of metal and glass. The addition of this structure has doubled the capacity of the museum’s existing building making it the largest museum in the country.

Playing host to dazzling festivals and events all year long, the museum is recognized as a cultural and architectural icon of Singapore. Among the special events that take place here are visually fascinating art installations, the dynamic Night Festival, film screenings and exhibitions of precious artefacts. After a three-year redevelopment, the museum re-opened towards the end of 2006.

The museum houses artefacts such as Gold Ornaments of the Sacred Hill, Singapore Stone, the portrait of Shenton Thomas, William Farquhar's drawings of flora and fauna, a Peranakan coffin cover and a lot more. Among the permanent exhibitions at the museum is Singapore History Gallery, which adopts a story-telling approach, letting visitors appreciate how the early settlers overcame their struggles.