Armenian Church

The Armenian Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator is the oldest Christian church in Singapore, located at 60 Hill Street in the Museum planning area. Built between 1835 and 1836 and designed by colonial architect George D. Coleman, it was funded by the early Armenian community. Consecrated in 1836 and gazetted as a National Monument in 1973, it is noted for its neoclassical architecture, memorial garden and historical tombstones.

Visitors can expect a small, white neoclassical church set in tranquil landscaped grounds on Hill Street. The interior features a simple nave with an altar, wooden pews and natural light. Outside, a memorial garden contains tombstones and monuments of early Armenian settlers. The site is quiet and compact, suitable for sightseeing, photography and quiet reflection, with interpretive panels explaining its history and architecture.

Commissioned by the Armenian community in Singapore and built 1835-1836 with funds raised by the community, including contributions from the Sarkies family. Designed by George D. Coleman, the first Government Superintendent of Public Works. Consecrated in 1836 and dedicated to Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the first monk of the Armenian Church. It served the small but influential Armenian community and was gazetted as a National Monument on 6 July 1973.

Represents the heritage and contributions of the Armenian community in Singapore. Serves as a Christian religious site and a symbol of early immigrant communities in the colonial period. Its memorial garden preserves funerary art and inscriptions reflecting Armenian cultural traditions.