Chijmes – Once a Catholic Convent now a leading Lifestyle Centre

Singapore is one of the most renowned shopping destinations as much as a city state boasting a plethora of historical sites

. Many of these are declared as national monuments and they include numerous temples, churches, mosques, museums and government buildings among others.

More than 50 structures and buildings are enlisted and preserved as national monuments in Singapore. These structures are recognized for their architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic and traditional significance. Among these national monuments is a site that was once a Catholic convent and now a commercial complex. Set on Victoria Street in the central business district of Singapore this is the famous multi-purpose complex more popularly known as Chijmes.

In 1854 four French nuns, who travelled via Penang to Singapore, founded a Catholic convent on the very Victoria Street. It was known as the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus or CHIJ for short, whereby the name Chijmes was later derived from this abbreviation. The Caldwell House next to the convent then became the convent quarters.

In November 1983 the convent's chapel saw its final service. The convent was closed and the chapel was deconsecrated. Singapore oversaw one of its most scrupulous restoration works in its history when refurbishing the entire site to its former glory, taking five and half years. In October 1990 the convent's chapel and the Caldwell House were gazetted as National Monuments of Singapore.

The site was transformed into a magnificent lifestyle destination packed with courtyards and outdoor spaces, retail as well as food and beverage outlets. Chijmes spans over an area of four acres and sits in the heart of the cultural district and the central business district of Singapore. To retain the 19th century ambience even the new structures at Chijmes were built in line with the neoclassical style.

The Gothic styled old convent chapel is now called the Chijmes Hall. This building is recognized as an architectural masterpiece portraying the finest aesthetics. Lofty stained glasses, stunning arched ceiling, attractive wall frescoes and impressive plasterworks adorn its interior. There are more than 640 capitals crowning the columns, embellished with floral and bird designs.

Presently Chijmes is a renowned lifestyle destination in Singapore flaunting its outstanding architectural and artistic value to its visitors. There are a number of chic restaurants, clubs, bars and pubs to cater to all ages and tastes. These outlets as well as live music all wrap around the charming courtyard, offering you a splendid time to remember for years. You can even shop for gifts and souvenirs in the premises while admiring the colonial architecture.

The old convent quarters known as Caldwell House now functions as a fine art gallery, whereas the multipurpose Chijmes Hall hosts various events including weddings. As a bonus, when you are in Chijmes do not forget to capture some of its live performances including recitals, musicals and theatrical shows.

Stay at a convenient hotel in Singapore that will give you the advantage of visiting Singapore's top attractions without a hassle. And do not forget to include a trip to Chijmes while exploring this beautiful city state. If you prefer a resort that offers you everything from accommodation to shopping to entertainment and even nightlife specials try the Marina Bay Sands Singapore. The most dramatic attraction at this Singapore luxury hotel is its Sky Park. Here you will find an unbelievably huge observational deck at an imposing height, giving breathtaking panoramas of Singapore.

Chijmes Once a Catholic Convent now a leading Lifestyle Centre

By: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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