Armenian Church, Singapore

When considering budget-friendly Singapore tour packages, make sure to include a visit to the famous Armenian Apostolic Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, commonly known as the Armenian Church. This church, the oldest Christian church in Singapore, is renowned as an architectural masterpiece by George D. Coleman, an Irish architect. Explore the church premises, which serve as the spiritual home of the Armenian community, a small yet influential group known for their contributions to Singapore's development. The church's design bears a striking resemblance to the Mother Church of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Etchmiadzin, northern Armenia. 

As you step inside the church premises, the first thing you will note is the tall spire on the roof of the church, along with the Roman Doric columns and pilasters that hold the famous porticoes. The interior of the church has a unique circular design and has numerous doors and windows to allow sunshine and cross ventilation. Within the church, you will be able to see pews adorned with stunning carved crosses and geometric patterns representing the Holy Trinity. 

The altar stands in the sanctuary and has a painting of the Last Supper as its altarpiece. In front of the altar is a monograph of the phrase ‘Christ our Savior’ written in Armenian initials. Once you have completed your exploration of the church, stroll to the memorial garden containing memorials of distinguished members of the Armenian community. Also, visit the parsonage which serves as the administrative block and houses the Armenian Heritage Gallery where you can learn more about the Armenian community.

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• Get to explore the rich history of one of the oldest churches in Singapore.
• Learn more about the first Armenian cultural and heritage center in Asia as well as the gazetted national monument that is considered to be a tribute to the influential Armenian community in Singapore.
• Get amazed by the intricate architecture of the church that is designed by one of the prominent Irish architects named George D. coleman.
• Spot the tall spire on the roof of the church and the Roman Doric columns that make up for the lauded porticoes.
• Observe the coffered ceiling and cupola, which are both based on local Armenian architecture.
• Take a stroll through the tranquilising Memorial garden of the church and see the tombstones, lush greenery, blooming flowers.

Armenian Street is located at Armenian Apostolic Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator Singapore, 60 Hill Street in Singapore. 

By MRT: To reach the church, you can take the MRT to reach the nearest MRT Station at City Hall, which connects the North-South Line with the East-West Line. Once you reach the MRT station, head towards Exit B which will take you to Armenian Street. Walk towards the church for 4 minutes once you reach the street. 

By Bus: Take buses no 12, 147, 197, 33, 51, 61, and 80 and get down at any of the two of the nearest Bus Stops at the Armenian Church Bus Stand or Grand Park City Hall Bus Stand and walk towards the church.

By Taxi: Hire a taxi to reach the church from any point in the city.

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The best time to visit Armenian Church Singapore is in the months of February to April. These months fall within the dry season with low humidity and lots of sunshine making it the best time for enjoying the church comfortably. The church is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm but if you want to attend the mass, you will need to visit on Sundays at 9:30 am.

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 The architecture of Armenian Church Singapore

The Armenian Church has been built in the British neoclassical style with few extensive influences in the manner of Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the mother church of Armenia. The interior of the church is circular and has a resemblance to the Holy Sepulchre in Cambridge. The circle further has square porticos projecting in Roman Doric orders in Palladian-style design.

There are several wide verandas with shades and also timbre-louvered windows on the ground floor for cross ventilation and sunlight. The north, west and south fronts of the church have Tuscan Doric Porticos, which has been topped with a triangular pediment. This design has been done to allow horse carriages to pull into porches, for the convenience of the ladies. Located within the church grounds are the Memorial Garden and the Parsonage.

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