Orchard Road Attractions

Istana

Formerly known as Government House, Istana is where the Singaporean President's office is located. It was built from 1867 – 1869 by Sir Harry St George Ord, Singapore's first governor. Constructed in the neo-Palladian Anglo-Indian style, it has beautiful surroundings and landscaping including a 105mm Japanese cannon, a six-foot high statue of Queen Victoria hewn from Sicilian marble, four ponds and an old well. The Istana grounds are open to the public annually in celebration of the following occasions: Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day and National Day.