Singapur | Michael Hoffman Photography

The Lion City

Singapore earned its name “Lion City” from a fascinating tale rooted in its history. Legend has it that in the 13th century, Prince Sang Nila Utama, the founder of ancient Singapore, encountered a mysterious creature resembling a lion during a visit to the island. Taking it as an auspicious sign, he named the newfound land “Singapura,” combining the Sanskrit words “Simha” (lion) and “Pura” (city). Ironically, there were no lions native to the region, leading historians to speculate that the creature Prince Sang Nila Utama saw might have been a Malayan tiger or a leopard. Regardless of the species, the symbolic association with strength and majesty stuck, and Singapore has since embraced its identity as the Lion City.

Discovering Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant city-state nestled at the crossroads of Southeast Asia. It captivates visitors with its unique blend of modernity and tradition and is known for its gleaming skyline punctuated by iconic landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands and the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, Singapore is a testament to urban innovation. Despite its compact size, the city-state boasts a rich cultural tapestry, with neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam offering diverse culinary delights and cultural experiences.