Monochrome - the oldest church

This is the oldest church in Singapore. Built in 1835, it is considered a masterpiece by the Irish architect George Coleman who designed it. It was consecrated the following year and dedicated to St. Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian monk. So the name of the church is the Armenian Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator.

A very old tree in the church compound.

At the back of the church is a little garden, It is actually a Memorial Garden with beautiful, ornate tombstones which are the tomb markings of Armenians who died in Singapore. It is worth a visit if you are in the area (60, Hill Street).




The gate close-up.

Somehow, the Armenian community is small but influential and stamped its mark in
Singapore. Like the Sarkies Brothers who built and managed the Raffles Hotel, Agnes Joaquim who is the inspiration behind the national orchid Vanda ‘Miss Joaquim’.

For more monochrome maniacs posts, go here.