Singapore abounds with fascinating historical sites left behind by early migrants and the British. The Singapore city showcases the best of British colonial architecture and memorials dedicated to World War II heroes. Following are some of the fascinating historical sites in Singapore:

CHIJMES

Formerly the site of the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (hence the acronym, pronounced chimes), CHIJMES is a unique blend of historical architecture and modern restoration. The Gothic Chapel, erected in 1890, is a showcase of plasterwork, delicate wall frescoes and stained glass. The Caldwell House has a sunken forecourt, waterfalls and fountains. The complex is now home to art galleries, boutiques and a lavish selection of restaurants, wine bars and cafes-one of Singapore's entertainment hot spots. Tours are conducted Monday-Friday 11 am and 3 pm, Saturday at 11 am. Free. Victoria Street. Phone 332-6274.

Istana

A former government house, it's now the official residence of the elected president of Singapore and the location of the prime minister's office. The grounds are only open to the public at the president's discretion, generally on five public holidays: New Year's Day, first day of the Lunar New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Christmas and Deepavali. Check with your hotel or a newspaper for information on opening times. Cavenagh Road. Phone 737-5522.

Kranji War Memorial and Cemetery

A peaceful cemetery on a slope overlooking the Straits of Johor, this is a memorial to those Allied forces who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation. Open 6:30 am-6 pm. Free. Woodlands Road. Phone 269-6158.

Merlion

Half lion and half fish, this mythical creature is the official tourism icon of Singapore. Built in 1972, the grand Merlion statue stands in Merlion Park on Fullerton Road, near the mouth of the Singapore River. If you're lucky, you may even catch it spouting water from its mouth. There is also a Merlion statue on Sentosa Island, where you can climb to the top and enjoy a panoramic view.

Parliament House and Elephant Statue

Colonial architect Sir George Coleman designed what is now the oldest government building standing in Singapore. Built in 1827 to be a private house for a well-known merchant, it is now the home of the Republic's Parliament. Check out the bronze elephant in front of the building, a gift from Siam's King Chulalongkorn in 1871. Free. Open by appointment only with one week's advance notice required. Appointments scheduled Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm. Parliament Lane. Phone 336-8811.

Raffles Hotel

This restored grande dame of the civic district is a must-see. Its grandeur and splendor reflect the days when Somerset Maugham and other members of the colonial elite frequented the establishment. The spacious courtyards, ballroom, old cake and pastry store, and jewelry shops help to re-create the past. The Long Bar, where the Singapore Sling was invented, is accessed through a side entrance, not through the lobby-hotel staff will redirect you. On the third floor, a museum details the history of the hotel. Daily 10 am-7 pm. Free. 1 Beach Rd. Phone 337-1886.

Singapore Cricket Club/Padang

This was the recreation hub of the British during the colonial heyday. Built in 1852, the club has a distinctive bungalow-style architecture. Admire it from the outside-because it's a private club, there's no touring inside the building. The historic Padang-the large open area fronting Empress Palace, City Hall and the Supreme Court-is open to the public. On weekends, rugby, soccer and even field hockey games are held at the Padang. Connaught Drive. Phone 338-9271.

St. Andrew's Cathedral

Indian convict labor built the cathedral in 1861. During the Japanese occupation in 1942, it was converted into a temporary hospital when the standing hospitals filled. Today, Anglicans worship at this site, and the cathedral offers visitors a tranquil respite from city life. Daily 9 am-5 pm. Free. St. Andrew's Road. Phone 337-6104.

Statues of Sir Stamford Raffles

There are two statues in memory of the man who founded modern Singapore in 1819. The original one stands outside the Victoria Concert Hall at Empress Place and was cast in 1887, while a replica stands behind Parliament House on North Boat Quay, the site where it is believed that Raffles first set foot on the island.