The Fort Canning Park is located at Fort Canning Hill. The park belongs to the British to hold its Government Office. It is also a strategic British battleground command centre during World War II as it overlooks the Singapore Town. Many underground bunker and cannons are built here. This history connected to the park during World War II educates the public about what the British did during the war, and how it is important be be united during times of emergency. Now, cultural shows, concerts and events are held here.

Fort Canning was originally known as Bukit Larangan, or "Forbidden Hill". It was later renamed Government Hill. This stratergic hill in the heart of the city has played a vital role in Singapore's history since ancient times. Today, it is a park where visitors can explore historic sites and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Archaeological excavations have yielded evidence supporting the existence of the ancient kingdom of Temasek, later named Singapura ("Lion City" in Sanskrit). Temasek was a regional trading centre in the 14th century until its destruction by the Siamese and Majapahit forces. Visitors to Fort Canning Park can find a number of relics reflecting the past glory of this place. Keramat Iskandar Shah, venerated by Muslims and believed to be the ancient tomb of the last Malay King, stood at the foot of the hill.

Drawn by its historical significance and panoramic view, Stamford Raffles built his bungalow and established the first botanical gardens there in 1822. The bungalow remained the residence of the British governor until the late 1850s when it was demolished to make way for a military fort bearing the name of Viscount Charles John Canning, Governor-General and first Viceroy of India.

Fort Canning continued to be used by the British army in the pre-war and post-war period, the Japanese army during World War Two and up to the 1970s by the Singapore Armed Forces. Monuments of interest found here such as the Fort Gate and the Gothic Archway have been preserved for the enjoyment of visitors.

Fort Canning Centre, the imposing 65-year old restored military barracks, now provides a major cultural venue and residence for Singapore's modern performing arts companies, Singapore Dance Theatre and Theatreworks. Audiences enjoy regular theatrical performances at the intimate, 100-seat Black Box theatre.

A special landscaping attraction in the form of a Spice Garden offers a small replica of Raffles' original 19-ha experimental and botanical garden. Spices, such as clove and cinnamon, are planted here to recreate the setting.

Some additional resources to find out more about Fort Canning Park:

• http://www.nparks.gov.sg/parks/loc/par-loc-for_cann.shtml

• http://www.nhb.gov.sg/discover_heritage/heritage_trail/fortcanning.shtml