On the waterfront of Marina Bay, in the shadow of skyscrapers, lies the soul of Singapore—the legendary Merlion. This is not just a statue, but the most famous mythical creature of the city-state, whose image is found on souvenirs, postcards, and in the hearts of tourists. A visit to Singapore is unthinkable without encountering this majestic hybrid of a lion and a fish.
The Legend of the Creature: Why a Lion with a Fish Tail?
The image of the Merlion is a heraldic poem embodied in concrete. It was created in 1964 for the Singapore Tourism Board as a symbol that could tell the entire story of the city in a single image.
• The Lion`s Head (from the Malay `singa` - lion) hearkens back to the ancient Javanese Prince Sang Nila Utama, who, according to legend, upon first setting foot on this island, saw a strange creature on the shore that resembled a lion. Inspired by this omen, he founded a settlement here and named it "Singapura" — "The Lion City". Historians believe the prince most likely saw a Malayan tiger or a wild boar, but the romantic legend of the lion took firm root and became the basis of its identity.
• The Fish Body and Tail symbolize Singapore`s humble beginnings as a fishing village and its deep-seated connection to the sea. The name "Temasek," by which the island was known in the Middle Ages, has Javanese roots and is also linked to the sea. Thus, the Merlion is a bridge between the two facets of Singapore: its noble, "leonine" destiny and its maritime, "fish-like" past.
How Did the Merlion Become a Symbol of Singapore?
Initially created as a logo to attract tourists, the Merlion quickly outgrew its marketing function. It proved to be a surprisingly comprehensive and understandable symbol that perfectly captured the soul of a young national, blend of ancient legends, respect for history, and an aspiration for the future. In 1972, then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew officially unveiled the 8.6-meter tall, 70-ton statue, and it instantly became a main attraction, overshadowing even its own "brand."
Interesting fact: The statue was originally located at the Esplanade Bridge, directly opposite the Fullerton Hotel. However, after the construction of the Esplanade Bridge Link in 1997, the view of the Merlion was blocked. In 2002, the statue was carefully moved 120 meters down the promenade to its current location in front of the One Fullerton hotel, where it gained a new lease on life against the backdrop of the unfolding view of Marina Bay Sands.
A Photo with the Merlion: An Essential Ritual
Visiting the statue is not just a tour; it`s a genuine ritual with its own traditions.
• The Classic Shot: The most popular photo is of a tourist posing in front of the Merlion as if the water spouting from its mouth is flowing directly onto their head or into their hands. It makes for a fun and dynamic picture.
• The Evening Spectacle: After sunset, the Merlion Park is transformed. The statue is beautifully illuminated, and the waterfront offers one of the best panoramas in Asia. Against the backdrop of the Merlion spewing a jet of water into the night sky, a queue forms of those wishing to take a picture with the gleaming Marina Bay Sands hotel, the futuristic ArtScience Museum, and the sparkling skyscrapers of the financial center in the background. It is the perfect place for a panoramic night photoshoot.
• The Light Show: In the evenings, you can also see the famous "Wonder Full" light and laser show (or its newer versions), which is projected onto a water screen over the bay, using the silhouettes of Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion as part of the grand performance.
What Can You See Here?
Merlion Park is an entire complex. Besides the famous 8.6-meter "Big Merlion," you can also find its two-meter tall "offspring"—the Merlion Cub. According to local belief, rubbing its head will bring you good luck.
Today, the Merlion, facing east, seems to gaze with pride and astonishment at the city it once symbolized. From a humble mascot, it has transformed into a wise guardian, reminding every visitor that the world`s most modern metropolis has an ancient soul, born from legend and sea foam.
