Artefacts from one of S’pore’s largest archaeological sites on display at Bras Basah MRT station

Ceramics traded from China and Southeast Asia were used by settlers in ancient Temasek 700 years ago. Today, fragments of them are among about 200 archaeological artefacts on display at Bras Basah MRT station.

- Koh Ming Lun

Members of the public at Bras Basah MRT station viewing the display of artefacts from 700 years ago on Nov 19. The showcase, part of a three-part initiative titled Unearthing Stories Of Us, will last for six months. The artefacts are from the 2015 excavation at Empress Place. PHOTOS: LIANHE ZAOBAO

(PHOTOS: LIANHE ZAOBAO)

This is the first time archaeological artefacts dug up in Singapore have been displayed at an MRT station. Commuters can also touch and feel the fragments at a hands-on section.

Organised by SMRT Trains and the National Heritage Board (NHB), the display features a variety of ceramic fragments, from blue-and-white creations bearing what are believed to resemble Sanskrit motifs to celadons — ceramic pottery that originated in China.

The display is part of a three-part initiative launched on Nov 19, titled Unearthing Stories Of Us. It will be on display for six months at Bras Basah MRT station, with NHB and SMRT exploring the possibility of taking the display to other stations.