This Anglican cathedral is the country's largest and most storied place of worship; the original structure was built in 1836, but demolished in 1855 among rumors of "unhappy spirits". The present Neo-Gothic structure designed by Colonel Ronald MacPherson and built with Indian convict labor.
The gleaming white interior walls and pillars are made from an interesting recipe: egg whites, coarse sugar, coconut husks, and shell lime were mixed together to make a mixture called Madras Chunam. This was applied to the walls, then rubbed with stones and dusted with soapstone powder to create a tough but glossy surface.
The cathedral's central light was dedicated to the memory of Singapore's founder, Sir Stamford Raffles. Over the west door, a window is dedicated to Colonel MacPherson. Other stained glass windows are dedicated to John Crawfurd, the country's first Major Resident, and Major General William Butterworth, the British Governor of the Straits Settlements.
Other memorials dot the cathedral site - a memorial to the victims of a 1915 mutiny on the north aisle; a memorial to the countless World War II dead; a cross made from nails rescued from the 14th century Coventry Cathedral; and a portion of the carpet used for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation.
More historical tidbits can be picked up at the Visitors Centre at the South Transept, where pictures and artifacts are displayed for tourists. Guided tours around the cathedral can also be arranged.
Address: Coleman Street Singapore 179802
How to get there: Near City Hall MRT Interchange in Singapore's central business district. The cathedral is located right above the station.
