Merlion singapore

The Merlion is an iconic statue with a lion's head and fish body, symbol of Singapore located at Marina Bay.

About this subject

The Merlion is Singapore's national mascot, representing the origin of the city-state's name: "Singapura" means "lion city" in Sanskrit, and the fish body symbolizes Singapore's humble beginnings as a fishing village. The original statue, 8.6 meters tall and weighing 70 tons, was sculpted by local artist Lim Nang Seng and unveiled on September 15, 1972, at Merlion Park at the mouth of the Singapore River. In 2002, the statue was relocated due to the construction of the Esplanade Bridge and now faces Marina Bay, offering a panoramic view of the modern skyline. A smaller 2-meter replica is located at Mount Faber, but the original remains the most photographed. The Merlion attracts millions of tourists annually and is such a strong national symbol that it appears on coins and stamps. Interestingly, the statue spouts water from its mouth into the bay reservoir, and there is a legend that a Malay prince sighted a lion on an island, giving rise to the name. Although lions never inhabited Singapore, the myth persists. Merlion Park offers stunning views of Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of the Merlion?

The Merlion represents the origin of Singapore's name: 'Singapura' means 'lion city' in Sanskrit, and the fish body symbolizes the city's roots as an ancient fishing village.

Where is the original Merlion statue located?

The original statue is located at Merlion Park on Marina Bay in Singapore, at the mouth of the Singapore River.

When was the Merlion unveiled?

The Merlion was unveiled on September 15, 1972, sculpted by local artist Lim Nang Seng.