CHIJMES

Overview

CHIJMES (pronounced "chimes") is a dining, events, and heritage complex on Victoria Street, occupying a former Catholic convent and school. The centrepiece is Caldwell House and the neo-Gothic chapel — with fan-vaulted ceilings and magnificent stained-glass windows — which now hosts weddings, concerts, and fashion shows.

Highlights

• Gothic Chapel: A beautifully preserved worship space with a vaulted hammer-beam roof and Belgian stained glass.
• Courtyard Dining: A landscaped courtyard ringed by restaurants and bars in the restored convent wings.
• Heritage Plaques: Interpretive panels throughout trace the story of the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus from 1854.

History

The Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus occupied this site from 1854 to 1983. After the school relocated, the complex was gazetted as a National Monument and reopened in 1996 as CHIJMES, becoming one of Singapore's most popular heritage-dining destinations.

Visitor Tips

• Evening visits are most atmospheric: The chapel and courtyard are beautifully lit after dark.
• Free to explore: No entry charge to wander the grounds and chapel.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.