There are also public programmes happening in May.

 

 

ArCH Square unveils a new line-up of May offerings that invite the public to engage with Singapore’s archaeology. Presented in conjunction with Singapore HeritageFest (SHF) 2026, which features a maritime theme, SHIPPED!: Memories from the sea anchors ArCH Square’s first-ever gallery rotation. The maritime-themed showcase features underwater artefacts retrieved from Singapore waters, many of which are making their first public appearance.

Beyond the showcase, the public can also participate in a series of curated workshops and conversations throughout May.

SHIPPED!: Memories from the sea explores Southeast Asia’s maritime past through underwater archaeology, presenting pieces not as isolated relics, but as evidence of trade, craftsmanship and the sea routes that connected the region to the wider world.

Anchored by artefacts recovered from Singapore waters and studied through archaeological research, including materials linked to the Empress of Asia and ceramics produced at renowned kiln centres such as Jingdezhen, the showcase traces each object’s journey from production and exchange to submergence, recovery and interpretation. Through stories, science and conservation, it reveals how maritime archaeology works in practice, while highlighting the cultural significance and ethical questions involved in preserving and presenting shared underwater heritage today.

Visitors can look forward to the artefacts featured in the showcase, including a porcelain piece decorated with a Makara. This mythical sea creature found in South and Southeast Asian traditions, depicts the movement of artistic traditions and beliefs across the region. Other items on display are a piece of a dragon jar (used to transport foodstuffs or liquids) and a toilet valve from a ship’s sanitation system. Together, these objects reveal the commercial utility and technological infrastructures that shaped long-distance maritime travel.

SHIPPED!: Memories from the sea starts from May 2 onwards at ArCH Square, 125 Jln Sultan, and admission is free.

 

Public programmes

Beyond the showcase, ArCH Square expands on these maritime narratives through a series of public programmes that bring Singapore’s seafaring history to life. From the sensory experiences of regional trade to intellectual deep-dives into underwater archaeology, these sessions offer diverse entry points into the enduring legacy of our maritime world.

• Coffee Cultures: Maritime Routes and Everyday Rituals explores Southeast Asia’s coffee cultures through the lens of maritime trade, tracing how beans travelled along sea routes and how tastes, brewing practices and social rituals were shaped by port cities and movement. The programme features guided tastings and a hands-on coffee-making workshop led by Kaffeign, a specialist in coffee workshops, highlighting coffee as a living expression of exchange and connection across the region. Participants will be treated to a tailored experience, drawing on Kaffeign’s expertise in coffee education and curated tasting experiences. Admission is S$40 and registration is – https://peatix.com/event/4954259/view.
• Framing the Sea is an accessible public conversation that brings maritime archaeology to life through stories of shipwrecks, underwater archaeological research and seafaring connections across Southeast Asia. Drawing on maritime archaeologist Dr Michael Flecker’s field experience, the session explores how submerged sites are studied and interpreted to reveal histories of trade, technology,and cultural exchange, while offering insight into how maritime heritage is studied, interpreted and shared today. With nearly four decades of expertise in regional seafaring traditions, trade networks and underwater heritage, Dr Flecker brings valuable knowledge to the programme and is also part of the HeritageSG team whose efforts support the development of archaeology in Singapore. Though admission is free, there is a S$10 refundable deposit required. To register, go to: https://peatix.com/event/4960174/view.
• Archaeology 101! is a four-week course designed to introduce beginners to Singapore’s archaeology through a mix of accessible theory and practical post-excavation practice. Participants will learn how archaeologists identify artefacts, materials, vessels and motifs, while gaining six hours of supervised hands-on processing experience. The course also serves as a foundation for deeper involvement, with participants who complete the full programme eligible to apply as volunteer lab technicians at the ArCH Square archaeology lab. The first intake will begin on May 21 2026, and participants can sign up online at https://peatix.com/event/4960182/view. The admission fee is S$60.

 

(** PHOTO CREDITS: HeritageSG)