Merlion singapore

The Merlion is the iconic statue with a lion's head and fish body that symbolizes Singapore, located at Marina Bay.

About this subject

The Merlion is one of the most recognizable images of Singapore, combining the head of a lion with the body of a fish. The statue was created in 1964 by sculptor Lim Nang Seng as part of a promotional project for the Singapore Tourism Board. The lion represents the legend of Sang Nila Utama, a prince from Sumatra who, upon spotting a lion on the island of Temasek, decided to found the city of Singapura, which means 'lion city' in Sanskrit. The fish body symbolizes the city-state's maritime origins, recalling its past as a fishing village and its port location.

The original statue, standing 8.6 meters tall and weighing 70 tons, was installed at the mouth of the Singapore River in 1972 and later relocated to Merlion Park, near Marina Bay Sands. A smaller 2-meter statue was erected on Sentosa Island in 1995. The Merlion has become such a strong national symbol that it appears on coins, stamps, and official logos, and is one of the most photographed tourist sites in the country.

Despite its popularity, the Merlion is not an authentic mythological figure from Malay or Chinese culture; it was a modern creation for tourism marketing. Nevertheless, its image is widely accepted as a national emblem, attracting millions of visitors each year. At night, the statue is illuminated and spouts water from its mouth, creating a visual spectacle against the backdrop of skyscrapers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Merlion?

The Merlion was created in 1964 as a tourism symbol for Singapore. The lion refers to the legend of Prince Sang Nila Utama, who allegedly saw a lion on the island and founded Singapura. The fish body represents the city's maritime origins.

Where is the Merlion located?

The main statue is at Merlion Park, Marina Bay, near the Marina Bay Sands hotel. A smaller replica is on Sentosa Island.

Why does the Merlion have a lion's head and a fish body?

The lion head symbolizes the legend of Sang Nila Utama and the name Singapura (lion city). The fish body represents Singapore's maritime heritage as a port and fishing village.