Tucked away on tranquil Hill Street in Singapores Museum Planning Area lies an Armenian church that claims the rare privilege of being the countrys first Christian church. Occupying pride of place within Singapores Central Business District this centuries old religious edifice is one of the Lion Citys most popular tourist attractions for its architectural features and religious significance. As a masterpiece structure designed by Irish great George D. Coleman the Armenian Church is a sacred venue consecrated to St Gregory the Illuminator who is the premier patriarch of the Church of Armenia.
Declared a national monument in July 1973 the church celebrated its 175th anniversary in late March, 2011 with the participation of over 160 Armenian dignitaries, archbishops and patriots from 19 nations as well as the Singaporean Armenian community. The churchs architectural leanings display features from conventional Armenian Church architecture such as vaulted ceilings and cupolas with a hint of British neo-classical building elements combined for good measure. Atop the main altar lies a painting of Jesus Christ and his apostles engaging in the Last Supper.
The outward appearance of the church with its Doric columns flanked by balustrades on either side holding up the white portico is reminiscent of the Roman Doric orders. In fact the western, southern and northern facades of the structure all feature Tuscan Doric porches topped off with triangular shaped pediments. The main entrance is located on the eastern front and consists of a beautifully arched apse which bears the numeric 1835 denoting the churchs founding year.
The churchs Memorial Garden is another point of interest in the enclave as it houses the tomb markings of Armenians that lived and passed away in Singapore. The two-storey bungalow which serves as the venues parsonage is another highlight as this resplendent house was built in 1905 to accommodate the parish priest. Today the parsonage is home to the administrative department of the Armenian Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator.
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