Thian Hock Keng Temple, translated as the Temple of Heavenly Happiness, is the most ancient and important Hoklo temple in Singapore. The Temple, which was constructed when the waterfront was at it's doorstep, is dedicated to Matsu, the Taoist Goddess of the sea.
Thian Hock Keng Temple was built by the Chinese immigrants from 1839 to 1842 to thank the Goddess Matsu for their safe passage across the South China Sea. A statue of Ma Cho Po came from China and was set up with fanfare in the temple's main prayer hall. The building now started serving as temple, school and community center.
The Empress Place Building or the Government Offices of the bygone era is a historical building, currently being used as the second wing of the Asian Civilisations Museum. It is located on the northern bank of the Singapore River.
Known as the Government Offices during the colonial era, the Empress Place Building held the offices of the government departments. Built in four phases from 1864 to 1920, the building was constructed to provide space for the colonial administration. The original part, designed by colonial engineer J.F.A. McNair was built by convict laborers between 1864 and 1867. A courthouse, which is now the core of the building, was constructed in 1865. This is the place where the Colonial Supreme Court held its hearings from 1875 to 1939.