Trifter

If a country’s sheer size directly correlates to its structural achievement,  then definitely Singapore would not make it big on the list. However, this is not so. A closer look at this diminutive island-nation of about 700 sq. km. reveals the contrast.  Structurally speaking, Singapore is a land of many firsts, holds a record for building gigantic structures and is on a constant lookout to building landmarks that will symbolically showcase its prominence in the international scene.

Take a look at some of the iconic structures that Singapore is known for.

The Fountain of Wealth

The Fountain of Wealth is listed in the Guinness Book of Records 1998 edition as the world’s largest fountain. It has a base area of 1683 square meters and a height of 13 meters. Structured in bronze, it has a circular ring supported by four large slanted columns.  The water flowing inward represents riches flowing in as water in Chinese culture symbolizes life and wealth.

Image courtesy of the Singapore Tourism Board

The fountain, designed to be the hub of Suntec City, one of the largest malls in Singapore, represents the palm of the hand with the five tower blocks  that surround it symbolizing the four fingers and thumb. As a whole, the tower blocks and fountain represent the left hand emerging from the ground.

At certain times during the day, the fountain is turned off. It is belived that visitors or tourists who walk around the mini fountain at the center of the fountain’s base three times touching the water will gain favors or some good luck of their own.

Night Safari

The Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal open-air zoo set in a tropical forest. This award-winning attraction features more than 1,200 animals of over 100 exotic species. Animals are separated from visitors with natural barriers and are made visible by lighting that resembles moonlight. The Night Safari area is adjacent to the Singapore Zoo, a world-acclaimed zoo that uses the “open zoo” concept — displaying animals in a safe, more natural setting, devoid of oppressive cages.

Image courtesy of the Singapore Tourism Board

Singapore Flyer

The world’s largest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer stands at a stunning 165m from the ground. The Flyer offers splendid views of the Marina Bay, the island city and the neighboring environs. One of the most recent icons that dot the Singapore landscape, the Flyer has been home to numerous intimate celebrations such as weddings and corporate events.

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

This distinctive Singapore icon is the favorite venue for art performances, be it musical, concert, dance or theatre. Built at the waterfront overlooking Marina Bay, the dome-shaped roofs boast of a 1,600-seat concert hall, 2,000-seat theatre, recital rooms, studios for theatre rehearsals and performing spaces.

Marina Bay Floating Platform

The world’s largest floating stage, it measures 120 meters long and 83 meters wide. It has a capacity of 1,070 tons (equivalent to the weight of 9,000 people), 200 tons stage props and 30 tons military vehicle. The floating platform is a venue for mega events on the waters of Marina Bay.

Singapore also played host to some of the world’s firsts:

F1 Night Race

The first-ever Formula 1 night race held in September 2008 is the first Grand Prix held under the lights. With Marina Bay as the backdrop to the masterfully-designed street circuit, the event earned worldwide acclaim and has been regarded as an instant classic by the foreign press for the thrill and visual experience it provided.

First to Fly the A380 Airbus

Singapore Airlines made the first commercial flight of A380 from Singapore to Sydney on 25 October 2007. A380 is the largest passenger airliner in the world.

Who says the quest for all things great and big ends? In 2010, Singapore will be hosting the first-ever Youth Olympics. If this island-nation wants to make it big in the field of fitness, then perhaps this explains the reason for the plan to establish an island-wide network of park connectors, probably the world’s first also. Currently, more than 40 parks and nature reserves dot the republic.

The list goes on. Who knows what comes next?