The Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (SYSNMH) official re-opened on Saturday after a year of development. The revamped museum features five galleries, original artefacts never displayed before, creative multimedia displays and a whole new storyline. For the uninitiated, the double-story villa, also known as Wan Qing Yuan, once served as home and headquarters of Dr Sun Yat Sen’s revolutionary activities in Southeast Asia. Good news to you heritage lovers, the new SYSNMH is offering free entry to all visitors from 9 to 30 October!

Here are some photos taken during the official opening ceremony on Saturday:

In addition to the museum, visitors will also be able to enjoy the 3-week Wan Qing CultureFest 2011, organised in conjunction with the re-opening of the museum and the 100th anniversary of the 1911 Revolution. Enjoy a diverse programme with performances, talks and workshops showcasing Chinese songs, dance and the arts brought together under the creative directorship of Royston Tan. For more details on the programme, do visit the official Wan Qing Yuan website.

The museum presents a new storyline which focuses on Singapore and Nanyang’s role in Dr Sun’s revolutionary activities and its impact on Singapore. If you are unfamiliar with Singapore’s revolutionary pioneers such as Teo Eng Hock, Tan Chor Lam and Lim Nee Soon, what better way to learn about them than through a visit to the museum!

With more than 180 original artefacts displayed in the museum, including rare photographs, artworks and letters, and the use of creative multimedia such as videos and interactive displays, the museum is truly a must-visit! The villa is a national monument and is also part of the Balestier Heritage Trail. Do also visit Zhong Shan Park just opposite the Memorial Hall, which presents 8 steps symbolising the 8 times Dr Sun visited Singapore.

Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall (Wan Qin Yuan)
12 Tai Gin Road
www.wanqingyuan.org.sg
Admission: Free entry for all from 9 to 30 October (Normal Admission: $4 for adults)
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