Scents of Kampong Gelam

Learn about the heritage of Kampong Gelam with our sense of smell

In this tour we will explore Kampong Gelam in a very special way: through our noses. Scents are known to evoke memories, and with all the items we smell during this tour, it will definitely be an experience you will never forget!

We start the history of this old Muslim neighbourhood with the fragrant tree Kampong Gelam is named after, which was used by its earliest inhabitants, the Orang Laut sea nomads. Since ancient times traders from far and beyond came to source fragrant botanicals from around the Malay Archipelago, some of which have been identified by archeologists in the balms of Egyptians mummies as well as Roman era perfume bottles.

We will learn about Arab incense traders and Indian attar makers, the Malay royals that lived in Istana Kampong Gelam, and of course we won't miss Sultan Mosque, and discuss the role of fragrances in Islam and the Haj pilgrimage.

I give this tour in cooperation with the Friends of the Museum, where I volunteer as a docent for the Kampong Gelam Heritage Tours. This is a free tour, but registration is needed. More information on FOM tours can be found here at www.fom.sg

Other itineraries with different themes are available for Kampong Gelam walks, please contact me to discuss options. Some example themes are:

Cerita cerita: Printers and booksellers of Kampong Gelam

The Singapore Arabs in Arab Street and beyond

Highlights of Kampong Gelam

Heritage businesses of Kampong Gelam