The Sacred Heart Basilica

Located just 1 km from the white town of Pondicherry, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a beautiful Catholic church. Its construction began in 1902 under the direction of Rev. Fr. Fourcaud, the parish priest of Cathedral, and Rev. Fr. Telesphore Welter, the parish priest of Nellithope, who prepared the building plan. It was blessed in 1907 by Monseigneur Joseph Adolphe Gandy, who consecrated the Archdiocese of Pondicherry to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The new parish was established around the church in 1908, and it has been led by twenty parish priests over the years.

The church offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area and has undergone numerous developments, including the addition of the Grotto for Our Lady of Lourdes, the Parish Hall, the Adoration Chapel, the Grotto for the Sacred Heart of Jesus facing the City Railway Station, and the new parish community hall. In 2005, the church was fully renovated inside and out under the leadership of Parish Priest Thomas, with statues of the four evangelists erected and inviting depictions of Jesus and the twelve apostles adorning the front façade, beneath which stand four lamp posts describing their lives.

 

Widely considered one of India’s most enchanting churches, the stunning Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends French and Indian styles. Its impressive dimensions measure 50 meters long, 48 meters wide, and 18 meters tall. From above, the church resembles a Latin-rite cross, and its intricate stained-glass windows add a touch of magic to its already awe-inspiring design. The church is huge and can accommodate 150 people at a time.

Good To Know

Tourist Spot:

The Sacred Heart of Jesus, Catholic Parish - Since 1902.

Distance:

1.4 km from Mahatma Gandhi Statue, White town.

Entry charges:

There is no entry charge to visit the church.

Door opening hours:

The church is open from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on all days.

Mass in two languages:

Tamil & English.

Mass offerings in Tamil:

Monday to Saturday, mass timings are 5:30 a.m 12:00 p.m and 6:00 p.m. Sunday mass times are as follows: 5:30 a.m and 7:30 a.m and 12:00 Noon.

Mass offerings in English:

Sunday 5:15 p.m. English mass is held once a week.

Allowed:

Kids, footwear, mobile, camera & offering.

Not Allowed:

Noise, vehicles, eating foods, pet animals & liquors.

Available:

Divine Boutique.

Food Near:

Golden Restaurant, Burmaa King, Hotel Maharajaa.

Stay Near:

Villa Felicia, Lia Homestay & Villa Souhay Homestay.

Shop Near:

Sunday Market (only on Sunday).

Parking:

Free parking outside of church, Subbiah Salai & M.G. Road.

Restroom:

Not available.

Location:

Door Nº 132, Subbiah Salai, South Boulevard, Tamil town, near Railway Station, MG Road cutting, Puducherry, 605001, INDIA.

This 100-year-old church is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, boasting an imposing façade decorated with Corinthian columns that will take your breath away. As you enter through the doors, you’ll be greeted by the biblical verse from 2 Chronicles 7:16, written in Latin above the entrance door: “sanctificavi locum istum, ut sit nomen meum ibi,” which means “I have consecrated this house, that my name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there forever.” Inside, the church is adorned with stunning glass pictures of 28 saints who were related to the devotion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe. The Jesus statue inside the church is placed in a very high position, along with candles on both sides, which give the church a colorful fenestration. It is thought to be Pondicherry’s largest church, and it was elevated to basilica status in 2011.

 

The church sees a large number of pilgrims during festive masses such as Christmas, and hosts grand celebrations on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Visitors to Puducherry should not miss the opportunity to witness the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in all its glory. Marvel at its stunning architecture, bask in its peaceful atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the history of this magnificent church. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is open all year and is a 2-minute walk from Pondicherry’s railway station. The best time to visit this place is during the Christmas festival.


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