Arch Square is Singapore’s first-ever space for archaeology. You can even learn how to process actual artefacts!
We’ve got a ton of cool museums and art galleries in Singapore – so what makes Arch Square different? The new education and outreach centre, opening in November, will be the region’s first dedicated space for all things archaeology and intangible cultural heritage. This makes Arch Square a unique and integral part of the heritage discovery process, giving the public more access to Singapore’s archaeological collections and beyond.
Arch Square Singapore: Details at a glance
Best for: History buffs, archaeology lovers, and frequent museum-goers looking for a new space to visit
How much: Free admission
Opening hours: Opens 1 November; Wednesday to Friday, 11am to 7pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm
Address: Arch Square, 125 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 199011
A never-before-seen permanent display
The first floor of Arch Square will be dedicated to disciplines of archaeology and intangible cultural heritage through seven themes. Some items on display include a series of artefacts found during a survey of Pulau Ubin in 2017 to 2018 – an awe-inspiring display that has never before been presented to the public! This includes stone tools, blades, and pottery fragments dating back over 3,000 years ago.
You can help process artefacts
What really caught our eye was Arch Square’s unique workshop, which allows the public to help process some of our artefacts in a lab. Dubbed Archaeology 101, the four-week-long workshops train ordinary citizens on the art of artefact processing. This means you get to document treasures that have sat untouched for years!
Further details on the programme have yet to be released. But from what we know, workshops are hosted by volunteers, and you can continue volunteering with Arch Square to process artefacts on an ad hoc basis.
How Arch Square preserves intangible cultural heritage
When we talk about heritage, we attribute it to physical objects and monuments. However, intangible cultural heritage acknowledges elements of culture that are not physical. These include stories, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and festivals.
Singapore currently has two pieces of intangible cultural heritage: hawker culture (because food is life) and the kebaya. Through archaeology and the workshops, Arch Square will be able to restore items and the stories they hold. This adds to Singapore’s tapestry of living heritage.
A thriving new art space for artists
Beyond activations with the public and collaborations with institutions and organisations, Arch Square will also work with independent artists and practitioners. It’ll rent spaces at 60% off standard rates, offering a new avenue to host workshops and exhibitions. An effigy maker, rangoli artist, and batik artists have already expressed interest, and we’re excited to see what they have in store.
More details have yet to be released, so keep an eye out for the latest updates on Arch Square in Singapore!
