Sri Mariamman Temple dates back to 1827 and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.
Beneath the imposing gopura are huge wooden doors. Their massive size is quite deliberate, designed to remind the worshippers of their insignificance in comparison to the divine.
Devotees believe that ringing the bells on the doors will bring good luck.
It’s located in Chinatown and is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, known for her power to cure illnesses and diseases.
Two nearby streets got their names because of this temple: Temple Street (for obvious reasons) and Pagoda Street, because of the shape of the temple’s gopura.
Now a national monument, much of the present structure is believed to have been built in 1862-1863 by Indian craftsmen.
Highly ornate and colourful ceiling paints abound in the temple. Each one is an eye-catching delight.
