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Istana

Istana stands in Singapore as the President’s official residence and office, set within a 106-acre estate. Its neo-Palladian mansion rises above gardens with deep verandahs, louvred windows, and a 28-metre central tower. The grounds include Victoria Pond, Marsh Garden, and a nine-hole golf course for visitors to discover.

The British colonial government acquired former Mount Sophia nutmeg plantation land in 1867 and built the governor’s mansion. Singapore received the property after self-government in 1959, and renovations from 1996 to 1998 added modern facilities. Six function rooms support ceremonies and entertainment, while presidential offices occupy the building. Sri Temasek, built in 1869, serves as the Prime Minister’s official residence, though no prime minister has lived there.

The two-storey wings display Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian orders, framing rooms for receptions, banquets, and state occasions. A third-floor President’s Lounge opens onto a balcony overlooking the ceremonial square and lawn. Public access includes statutory holidays such as Chinese New Year and National Day. One striking object is a Japanese field-artillery gun presented to Lord Louis Mountbatten after World War II.

City
Singapore
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