French War Memorial

Pondicherry is a historical settlement that is dotted with numerous places of historical importance. Of those numerous, one very important place of tourist interest in Pondicherry is the French War Memorial. Situated on Goubert Avenue, the French War Memorial commemorates all those valorous soldiers who sacrificed their lives for their countries in World War I.

The memorial was constructed in the year 1938 by the governor of that time - Crocicchia. However, the inauguration of the memorial was observed on 3rd April 1938. Just opposite this historical site in Pondicherry lies the statue of Gandhi - one of India's biggest freedom fighters. Every year, on the 14th of July, the memorial is beautifully light to honor those brave martyrs.

People from around the territory and nearby cities and towns gather here to be a part of this homage. French War Memorial is reckoned to be one of the popular tourist places in Pondicherry, and thus, is explored by numerous thousands of tourists every day. Being located in a small area, the memorial does not take much time to explore. A stroll around the French War Memorial is enough to treat your eyes with a glance at this historical monument.

History of the French War Memorial

It was built in 1971 to commemorate the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the First World War.

Architecture of the French War Memorial

The memorial has four stark white columns with a life-size statue of a soldier leaning on a rifle. On the memorial, there is an inscription that says, 'Aux combatants des Indes Francoise's morts pour la Patrie, 1914-1918' which means French fighters of India who died for their country in 1914-1918.