Merlion singapore

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

About this subject

The Merlion is a mythical creature that became the national symbol of Singapore since 1964. The original statue, 8.6 meters tall and weighing 70 tons, was carved by local craftsman Lim Nang Seng and unveiled on September 15, 1972 at Merlion Park, along the Marina Bay. The lion head refers to the legend of Prince Sang Nila Utama, who in the 13th century sighted a lion upon landing on the island, naming it Singapura (lion city in Sanskrit). The fish body represents Singapore's origins as a fishing village (Temasek in Old Javanese) and its connection to the sea.

The Merlion attracts millions of tourists annually, who pose for photos with the water jet spouting from its mouth. In 1997, the statue was struck by lightning and had to be repaired. Besides the main statue, there is a smaller replica (2 meters) near the Japanese Garden. The Merlion has also been subject to controversies: in 2009, a 5-meter version on Mount Faber was removed to make way for a new complex. The figure is so iconic that it appears on coins, stamps, and souvenirs.

Interestingly, the original design did not include the water spout; it was added later to make it more photogenic. The statue is made of cement, covered with thousands of white and blue porcelain pieces, which shine under nighttime lighting. Merlion Park, located near the Fullerton Hotel and the Esplanade, offers a privileged view of Singapore's skyline, including Marina Bay Sands. In 2021, the statue underwent a complete restoration, including crack repairs and repainting.

The Merlion is an example of how a modern symbol can become part of national identity. Unlike other mythical statues around the world, it has no ancient origins, but was created specifically for tourism. Nevertheless, it has won the hearts of Singaporeans and is one of the most photographed tourist spots in Southeast Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Merlion of Singapore represent?

The Merlion symbolizes Singapore's origins and identity: the lion head represents the name Singapura (lion city), and the fish body refers to the island's roots as a fishing village (Temasek).

Where is the original Merlion located?

The original Merlion statue is located at Merlion Park on Marina Bay, near the Fullerton Hotel and the Esplanade in Singapore.

Has the Merlion ever been damaged?

Yes, in 1997 the statue was struck by lightning and required repairs. In 2021, it underwent a complete restoration to fix cracks and renew the paint.