YUAN Zhong1,2
(1.State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China;2.School of Journalism and Communication,South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006,Guangdong, China)
Abstract : More than 800 Chinese temples in Singapore have been modeled after the traditional temples in South China since the 19th century. Compared to the traditional Chinese temples, they varies from the solid part of building to activities in the space of building, which we call localization of the temples. The comprehensiveness of Chinese temple may be comprised of multiple beliefs and compounded of complicated social activities in Singapore. The five concrete representations of comprehensiveness are as follows: blend of temple space;localization of deities; Southeast Asia style of architecture;diversity of temple conducts; modernity of temple function. Nowdays Chinese temples in Singapore keep the characteristics of concentration of traditional spirits and folkways, and are still used as religious site, cultural community and regional financial centre.
Keywords:Southeast Asia;Singapore;space;Chinese temple; comprehensiveness