The Merlion
The Merlion was designed as an emblem for Singapore Tourism Board in 1964.
The Merlion has a lion head and a fish body resting on a crest of waves. The lion head symbolises the legend of the rediscoving of Singapore.
Olden times, Singapore was known as Temasek, a Javanese word for sea. In the 11th century, Prince Sang Nila Utama, rediscovered the island. When the Prince first landed on Singapore's shores, he sighted a beast which he later learnt was a lion.
The Prince then decided to name the island "Singapura" which in Sanskrit means Lion (Singa) City (Pura). The fish tail of the Merlion symbolises the ancient city of Temasek and represents Singapore's humble beginnings as a fishing village.
The Merlion statue, 8.6 metre high, weighing 70 000 kg, was built by the late Singapore craftsman, Mr Lim Nang Seng. It is made of cement fondue. A smaller Merlion statue, measuring two metres high and weighing three tonnes was also built by Mr Lim. The body is made of cement fondue, the skin from porcelain plates and eyes from small red teacups.
"The Merlion was established as a symbol to welcome all visitors to Singapore." was inscripted on a bronze plaque during the first installation ceremony of the Merlion on 15 September 1972.
