Central Area

The Central Area is an administrative and commercial zone in Singapore comprising eleven planning districts, including the Downtown Core, Marina East, Marina South, and the shopping district of Orchard. The region spans roughly 133 square kilometers and blends historic neighborhoods with contemporary development.

Stamford Raffles established a free trading port on the Singapore River in 1819, marking the start of modern Singapore's growth. This commercial settlement quickly attracted merchants and immigrants, setting the foundation for the city's structure for generations to come.

The Thian Hock Keng Temple, built in 1839, reflects Chinese maritime heritage and served as a gathering place for immigrants arriving in Singapore. Visitors can still experience the traditional architecture and active worship that connects the present to those early communities.

The area is well-connected through multiple Mass Rapid Transit stations and bus routes, making it easy to travel between different districts. Visitors should expect a large region where getting around on foot or by public transport will depend on which neighborhoods they want to explore.

Land reclamation projects beginning in the 1970s created entirely new districts like Marina East, Marina South, and Straits View, reshaping the region. These reclaimed areas reveal how the city engineered additional territory to accommodate expansion and development.