Sultan Mosque: The Focal Point of Kampong Glam | Singapore Purple Travel Guide

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The Sultan Mosque is the focal point of the historic Kampong Gelam precinct and is widely considered the national mosque of Singapore. With its massive golden domes and grand prayer hall, it is a premier landmark for the Malay-Muslim community. The building is a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending traditional Persian, Moorish, and Turkish influences to create a structure that is both imposing and deeply elegant.

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Why You Should Visit

Visiting this mosque is essential for understanding the royal history of Singapore. It sits at the end of Bussorah Street, framed perfectly by palm trees and restored shophouses, offering one of the most iconic views in the city. It is a place where you can experience the intersection of faith, history, and community in an environment that is remarkably peaceful despite being in a busy tourist district.

What is Special About It?

• The ‘Glass Bottle’ Domes: If you look closely at the dark ring at the base of each golden dome, you will see it is made from hundreds of glass soy sauce bottle ends. These were collected and donated by poor devotees during its reconstruction so that every member of the community, not just the wealthy, could contribute.
• The Grand Prayer Hall: The massive internal hall can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers and features a stunning carpet donated by a prince from Saudi Arabia.
• Bussorah Street View: The pedestrianized street leading up to the mosque is designed to evoke a sense of old-world charm, lined with shops selling traditional perfumes, batiks, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
• Night Illumination: In the evening, the golden domes are bathed in soft floodlights, making the mosque glow against the night sky and providing a spectacular sight for those dining nearby.

History and Facts

• Royal Foundations: The original mosque was built in 1824 for Sultan Hussain Shah, the first Sultan of Singapore, with a grant from the British East India Company.
• Architectural Evolution: The current structure was completed in 1932 to replace the original building, which had become too small for the growing community. It was designed by Denis Santry of Swan and Maclaren, one of Singapore's oldest architectural firms.
• National Monument: It was gazetted as a National Monument on March 14, 1975, due to its immense cultural and historical significance.
• Centenary Celebration: The mosque celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024, marking a century of serving as a spiritual anchor for Muslims in the region.

Self-Guided Information

Traveler Tip

Please be aware that the mosque is closed to non-Muslim visitors during congregational prayer times, especially on Friday afternoons. Like other religious sites in the area, a modest dress code is strictly enforced; however, the mosque provides complimentary cloaks at the entrance if your attire is not suitable. For the best photograph of the entire building, stand at the very end of Bussorah Street near the intersection with North Bridge Road.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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