Istana Kampong Glam, Former Malay royal palace in Kampong Glam, Singapore.
Description
Istana Kampong Glam is a two-story building at Sultan Gate displaying Palladian architecture, including round arches at the entrances and Doric pilasters across its yellow facade. The structure showcases symmetrical proportions and classical design elements that reflect European influence on 19th century Singapore.
History
Sultan Hussein Shah received land in this area from the British East India Company in 1819 to establish a royal settlement. His son later commissioned the construction of this concrete structure between 1836 and 1843.
Culture
This structure marks where the Sultan's family lived and conducted royal affairs, serving as the heart of Malay royal life in 1800s Singapore. The location reflects how aristocratic families organized their households and power during this period.
Practical
The building now houses the Malay Heritage Centre, where visitors can explore exhibitions about the history and culture of Singapore's Malay community. Its location at Sultan Gate is easily accessible by public transport and sits in the heart of the Kampong Glam neighborhood.
Did you know?
A court ruling in 1897 transferred the estate to government ownership after determining no legitimate succession claims existed among the Sultan's descendants. This legal event marked the shift of the site from a royal residence to a public institution.
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