Old Parliament House | Central Region

Information

Landmark: Old Parliament House
City: Central Region
Country: Singapore
Continent: Asia

Old Parliament House, Central Region, Singapore, Asia

Old Parliament House is a historical building located in the Central Region of Singapore.

It served as the seat of the Parliament of Singapore from 1965 to 1999.

Visual Characteristics

The building is a neoclassical structure constructed primarily from brick and concrete. It features a prominent portico with Doric columns and a pediment. The exterior is painted in a light cream color. The building has three stories and a total floor area of approximately 10,000 square meters.

Location & Access Logistics

Old Parliament House is situated at 1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore 179429. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers southwest of the Singapore CBD. Access is via North Bridge Road and Parliament Lane. Limited metered parking is available on Parliament Lane and surrounding streets. The nearest MRT station is City Hall (NS25/EW13), approximately a 5-minute walk away. Bus services 7, 12, 32, and 174 stop at the Parliament House bus stop.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building was originally constructed between 1827 and 1835 as part of the Singapore Institution, later renamed Raffles Institution. It was designed by George Drumgoole Coleman, the Superintendent of Public Works. It served various governmental functions before becoming the Parliament House in 1965.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the former chamber of Parliament. The building now houses The Arts House, which hosts exhibitions and performances. Guided tours detailing the building's history and architectural features are available on select days.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within The Arts House. Limited shaded areas are present around the building's exterior. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in the vicinity. Food and beverage options are available at The Arts House cafe and in nearby commercial areas.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions on the building's facade. The building is open to the public during The Arts House operating hours, typically Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Check The Arts House website for specific event schedules.

Facts & Legends

A specific architectural detail to note is the original timber staircase, which has been preserved. It is said that during its early days, the building was also used as a courthouse.