Did you know that the Sultan Gate was once lined with blacksmiths and Baghdad Street with blacksmiths and traders? Where a car park now stands along Kandahar Street, there was the Pondok Java which housed Javanese migrants, famed for the Javanese theatre and arts performances it used to host.

These are just some of the stories behind Kampong Glam’s streets and lanes. Steeped in history, culture and memories, Kampong Glam is one of Singapore’s most colourful districts. It was where the Malay royalty once resided, and where one of the most significant and important mosques in the country, Masjid Sultan, is located. It was where many diverse communities once called home. These communities have left their mark in different ways, from the buildings in the area and long-time businesses to vernacular place names. Explore these stories through the Kampong Glam Heritage Trail.

The Kampong Glam Heritage Trail is self-guided and further information on the trail and its sites can be accessed year-round on roots.gov.sg. 


Image Credits: Courtesy of National Heritage Board