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The Cenotaph
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monument
The Cenotaph is a prominent war memorial located within Esplanade Park in central Singapore, originally built to honor the men who perished during World War I. The foundation stone was laid on November 15, 1920, by the Prince of Wales, with the official unveiling taking place in March 1922. Constructed from local granite, the monument was designed by the architectural firm Swan & Maclaren in a somber, neoclassical style. The steps on the front face bear the names of 124 individuals from Singapore who lost their lives in the Great War between 1914 and 1918. Following the conclusion of World War II, the reverse side of the memorial was adapted to commemorate the victims of that conflict from 1941 to 1945. Today, it stands as a poignant symbol of patriotism and sacrifice, reflecting the city's colonial military history. The Cenotaph was gazetted as a National Monument of Singapore on December 28, 2010, ensuring its long-term preservation and institutional recognition.
- Location: Singapore
- Top sights: Anderson Bridge · Esplanade Park · Esplanade Bridge
- Nearby: Yishun (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 235 | 102 | 168 | 193 | 199 | 164 | 174 | 173 | 167 | 210 | 283 | 300 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cenotaph is an open monument in Esplanade Park, accessible at any time. It is a place of reflection; visitors can read the inscriptions and honour the fallen.
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, there are no opening hours - it is always accessible. Special commemorative events are held annually on 11 November.
Photography
Photography is allowed at any time; the monument is especially photogenic at sunset. Please be respectful when commemorative ceremonies are taking place.
Time needed
A visit to the Cenotaph takes about 10 to 15 minutes to read the inscriptions and pay respects. Combine it with a walk through Esplanade Park for about 30 minutes.
Combine with
The monument is in Esplanade Park, near the Fullerton Hotel and Merlion. Combine your visit with a walk along Marina Bay or to the ArtScience Museum.
Getting there
Reachable by MRT to City Hall or Raffles Place station, then about a 5-minute walk. Bus routes 10, 57, 70, and 75 stop nearby; parking in the area is limited.
Insider tip
Visit the Cenotaph at sunset when the light softly illuminates the monument. Read the names on the plaques - each represents a personal story.
Geography
Facts
- The foundation stone was laid by the Prince of Wales on November 15, 1920.
- The memorial was officially unveiled on March 31, 1922.
- It commemorates 124 men from Singapore who died in World War I.
- Inscriptions for World War II victims were added to the reverse side after 1945.
- The structure is built from solid local granite and stands nearly 18 meters tall.
- It was designated as a National Monument of Singapore on December 28, 2010.
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Sights in the town The Cenotaph (3)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Cenotaph in Singapore?
A war memorial honoring soldiers who died in World War I.
Where is the monument located?
It is located in Esplanade Park near the mouth of the Singapore River.
Is the monument accessible anytime?
Yes, as it is freely accessible in a public park.
How long does a visit take?
About 10-15 minutes for viewing.
Is the monument wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the surrounding park is flat and easily accessible.
The Cenotaph: where is it located?
The Cenotaph is located in Singapore.
The Cenotaph: what is there to see?
Highlights include Anderson Bridge, Esplanade Park, Esplanade Bridge.
The Cenotaph: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
The Cenotaph: why is it worth visiting?
The Cenotaph is a prominent war memorial located within Esplanade Park in central Singapore, originally built to honor the men who perished during World War I.
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