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Portugese, Dutch, Danes and English
From the beginning of the 16th century foreign powers started having influence on Puducherry. Puducherry’s strategic location and scope for maritime activities lured them. Gradually the Portugese, Dutch, Danes and English started establishing their colonies here. Portugese built the first factory here in the early part of 16th century.
The French colonization:It was in 1673 that the French had established a foothold over Puducherry. In 1674 AD Pondi was converted to a port town by Francois Martin the first French Governor. There were many battles between the French and the Dutch and finally in1699 the French regained Puducherry.
The fight to control continued with the British under Clive seized many places from the French. Though Dupleix (1742-54) was an able Governor but he had to return to France with disgrace. In the 1760 siege of Puducherry, the whole town was razed. In 1765, English returned Pondi to the French. Wars continued between the two arch rivals to gain absolute supremacy. It was only in 1816 that French could get a complete control.
In 1699, it again became the property of the French and François Martin, the administrator, restored peace in Puducherry and made developments in the town. For about 250 years Puducherry remained more or less peaceful other than the Carnatic Wars. In the years to come History in Puducherry witnessed the rivalry between the French and the British which disturbed the serenity of Puducherry and it ended only when the British recognized the French supremacy over Puducherry in 1814. From that time till 1954, History of Puducherry was a history of French domination.
On 1st November 1954, France agreed to give up Puducherry and the other three territories to the Indian government, and the Indian flag was hoisted for the first time in Puducherry with a grand ceremony and 21 gun shots. Puducherry's history took a new turn in 1963, when the 'Territory of Puducherry' was created with Puducherry, Karikal, Yanam and Mahé. It started the beginning of a new era in Puducherry's glorious history.
French MemorialStatue of DuplexRaj Niwas & Lighthouse ChurchInstitute
Located on the Beach Road or the Promenade Goubert Avenue, the French War Memorial was constructed to pay a tribute to the French soldiers who laid their lives during World War 1. It is maintained by the French government.Every year to commemorate the Bastille Day on July 14th a ceremony is held here.
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Duplex was Pondicherry`s most illustrious French Governor. Humbled by the British he was forced to return to France in 1754. Nevertheless recognition by the French Government came a century later when in 1870 they commissioned his statue at Pondicherry. Originally the The 2.88 meter tall majestic statue statue was erected over six ornamental granite pillars at Place Du Republique. The Statue now stands relocated to the southern end of the beach overlooking the Children`s park.
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The 18th century building "Palais Du Government is now known as the Raj Niwas. Once occupied by the French Governor Dupleix , it is now the official residence of the Lt. Governor of Pondicherry.
The lighthouse: The 19th century lighthouse on Goubert Salai is still one of Pondicherry`s prime tourist attractions. It was built in the year 1836 and stands on the edge of the sea close to the Place Du Gouvernment.
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Eglise De Notre Dame Cathedral: The Eglise De Notre Dame Des Agnes or Church of the Capuchins, is located on the Rue Dumas. The locals call it Pink Church because of the colour. Built in the year 1865 it was modeled on the Basilica in Lourdes. The church is believed to have been donated by the French emperor Nepolean III. Prayers are still conducted here in French.
Sacred Heart Church: Sacred Heart Cathedral aka Eglise De Sacre Coeur De Jesus is situated on South Bolevard. This 100 year old cathedral is well acclaimed for its Gothic architecture and the immaculately stained glass panels. The glass panels show the complete life of Jesus.
Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception: Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception lies in the heart of Pondicherry at Mission Street. It has a 300 year old history attached to it. After much destruction the present church was built in 1791.
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The French Institute of Pondicherry was officially inaugurated on March 20 in 1955 as a result of framework of the Cessation treaty of French Territories in India. FIP is a pert of the network of research centers organized by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The French Institute of Pondicherry is situated near the beach in Pudduchery and the famous Aurobindo Ashram also stands nearby. The location of FIP is very beautiful and is within the French quarters. The building of FIP is constructed in 19th century in French-style and the colour of the building is yellow. It covers an area of 3000 square meters.
Lycee Francais:Lycee Francais is located at Rue Victor Simonel. It was established in the year 1826. It has a good collection of old photographs and rare coins belonging to the French East Indian Company.
LA Ecole Francaise d Extreme Orient:The French Institute of Pondicherry is one of the important landmarks of Pondicherry as a centre for academic excellence. It was inaugurated on 20th March 1955. An eminent French Indologist, Dr. Jean Fillozet was its founder. It`s a classical colonial building with a well decked up entrance gate, arched staircases, large windows and pediments. It is located at St. Louis Street.
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French
