The Sacred Heart Basilica

  • 4.5

    Location: Door No, 132, South Boulevard, near Railway Station, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001, India.

    Visiting time: 1-2 hours.

    The Sacred Heart of Jesus Basilica is a Roman Catholic basilica located on Pondicherry‘s South Boulevard. It is one of Pondicherry’s most well-known monuments, as well as one of the country’s 21 most renowned Basilicas. It was established in 1908 by French missionaries and given the rank of Basilica in 2011. The church was built in Roman-Byzantine architecture and is thought to be Puducherry’s largest church.

    Attraction

    The stained glass panels show Christ’s life as well as the lives of the saints of the Catholic Church. The basilica is the first in Pondicherry, the sixth in Tamil Nadu, the twentieth in India, and the fifty-first in Asia. Thousands of pilgrims go to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in search of peace. If you’re going to Pondicherry for a holiday, this gorgeous cathedral is a must-see since it will enclose you and transfer you to a world of calm away from the city’s fast-paced living in a state of complete relaxation.

    History

    Sacred Heart Church is a historical place in Puducherry, India.

    The Archdiocese of Pondicherry was consecrated in 1895 by Archbishop Mgr. Gandhi. He desired to build a church dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The construction plan was created by Nellithope Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Telesphore Welter in order to bring his dream to life. Rev. Fr. Fourcaud, the Cathedral’s Parish Priest, began the construction of the church in 1902. The church was placed on the southern outskirts of Pondicherry town. On the 17th of December 1907, Mgr. Gandhi blessed the Church and celebrated the first Holy Mass. It was then, as it is now, the western wing of the monument. Later, in 1908, a new parish was built around this Church. Over the years, further additions to the Basilica have been constructed, such as an Adoration chapel and a Grotto to Our Lady of Lourdes.

    Inside/Outside Views

    Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus church situated on the south boulevard of Pondicherry, India, is an specimen of Gothic architecture.

    The Basilica is 50 meters in length and 48 meters in breadth. From the aerial perspective, there is a Latin rite cross form with a height of 18 meters. The church also boasts lovely stained-glass windows, two towers, and a large façade. The glass windows are surrounded by clay crafts. The interiors are massive, with a mix of moss green, milky white, and crimson, with 24 columns holding the whole thing together. There are 28 glass paintings of saints associated with Jesus’ sacred heart, including Joan of Arc, within the cathedral. A figure of Madonna, dressed in a blue sari, is also placed on the right side of the altar. Since its construction, the church has seen several alterations, including the addition of a Parish Hall, a Grotto to Our Lady of Lourdes, and an Adoration chapel.

    Opening Hours

    The opening hour is 6.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m from Monday to Saturday and Sunday 5:30 am – 7:30 pm.

    Entry & Others Fees

    No entry fee.

    How to Reach

    By Air: Pondicherry has an airport 6 kilometers from the city center that connects it to the rest of the country’s major cities. You may also fly into Chennai International Airport to go to Puducherry (MAA). It’s about 150 kilometers away. It provides access to the town via local buses and taxi services.

    By Rail: Puducherry is about 37 kilometers distant from Villupuram Junction. You may get to Pondicherry by rail and then take a bus or a cab to the town.

    By Road: Buses and taxis are readily available in Puducherry. To go to Puducherry, you can use either state or private buses. You may also arrange buses or cabs on the East Coast Road to go to Pondicherry (ECR). The course is spectacular, with stunning views of the sea and gorgeous natural surroundings. You may also get a full-day cab from one of Pondicherry’s top vehicle rental companies and see all of the city’s most renowned tourist attractions in luxury.

    Tips for Travellers

    • Please follow the visiting hours and double-check for any changes before coming.
    • Before taking images within the Basilica, be sure you have permission.
    • You are welcome to attend the Mass, but please be courteous and silently watch the procedures.

    FAQ

    Que: Is this place safe to visit?

    Ans: Yes, this place is safe to visit.

    Que: Is photography allowed in this place?

    Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

    We wish you all the best for your journey. Happy Travel!!!

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