Thian Hock Keng

Following Singapore’s National Day, I return to Singapore for a spell. Today’s featured image is of Thian Hock Keng, a Taoist temple in Singapore. Its name translates into Celestial Fortune, and is dedicated to Mazu, the protector of seafarers. The entrance to the temple is incredibly ornate and grand, befitting one of the most important Hokkien temples in Singapore. Constructed in 1842, the temple was gazetted as a national monument in 1973, and underwent a series of restoration over the years. Beside the main doors you can see two stone lions. These are traditional Chinese guardians, and are often found in pairs at the entrances of important monuments.

This image is a panorama stitched from 5 images. The entrance is longer than it is wide, and coupled with my wide angle, gives the panorama a cylindrical warp.