french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-1-attr-hero

Puducherry

French War Memorial

french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-2-attr-hero
french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-1-musthead-hero
french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-2-musthead-hero
french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-1-attr-hero
french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-2-attr-hero
french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-1-musthead-hero
french-war-memorial-puducherry-puducherry-2-musthead-hero
map

January

18.0 - 31.7 °C

February

18.9 - 33.0 °C

March

20.6 - 34.9 °C

April

23.7 - 37.4 °C

May

23.6 - 41.3 °C

June

23.9 - 40.3 °C

July

23.3 - 39.2 °C

August

22.7 - 38.5 °C

September

22.4 - 37.5 °C

October

21.8 - 36.0 °C

November

20.2 - 33.8 °C

December

18.8 - 31.9 °C


Major Airports :

Puducherry Airport (PNY), Puducherry

Chennai International Airport (MAA), Chennai

Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), Tiruchirappalli

Nearest Railway Station :

Puducherry Railway Station (PDY)

Major Airports :

Puducherry Airport (PNY), Puducherry

Chennai International Airport (MAA), Chennai

Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), Tiruchirappalli

An ode to the valour of heroes

The elegant structure of the French War Memorial, located in the centre of Puducherry, was built as a tribute to those brave soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. This memorial stands on Goubert Avenue as a constant reminder of the cost of peace while recognising those who fought alongside the Allied Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice to uphold duty and honour.

Governor Crocicchia inaugurated this memorial on April 3, 1938, marking it as a memory for posterity. It was designed by the sculptor Gaston Petit and an architect named Delafon. French to reflect both French and Indian architectural styles, emphasising the rich cultural exchange that took place at that time.

As a cinematic background

Reconstructed in 1970, the French War Memorial is a marvel that draws not only visitors' admiration and respect but also film directors. It has been a background in some cinematic projects, including its appearance in the Bollywood comedy film 'One, Two, Three' (2008).

The memorial has four strong white columns with a soldier’s life-size statue leaning on a rifle with an inscription that says, ‘Aux combattants des Indes Françaises morts pour la Patrie, 1914-1918‘, which means ‘Here lie French Indian soldiers who died for their country’. Crafted out of granite, the memorial is crowned with an elegant dome with intricate engravings that express respect and appreciation for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. A bronze plaque lists the names of those who gave their lives during World War I, with subsequent additions honouring soldiers who died in other conflicts, such as World War II, the French War in Indochina and the Algerian War.

At its most incredible

Visit the French War Memorial to participate during special events. Bastille Day, held annually on July 14, and Armistice Day on November 11, are perhaps its most noteworthy celebrations to honour and remember the fallen soldiers, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.


French-War-Memorial
Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 05:00 PM

Beyond the memorial

With its rich history and culture, Puducherry welcomes you to explore its many wonders. Visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram for spiritual enlightenment, stroll along Promenade Beach, and explore the Botanical Garden. Don’t miss the Puducherry Museum in Bharathi Park or Auroville, an experimental township founded in 1968.

At the French War Memorial stands as a monument that invites you to reflect upon the sacrifices made by those who came before us. Explore Puducherry's rich history and culture, and you'll be fascinated with all it offers.