Old Lighthouse

Old Lighthouse in Pondicherry

  • Old Lighthouse in Pondicherry Overview

The Old Lighthouse in Puducherry is a significant historical landmark that reflects the region’s maritime history and its French colonial past. It is located on Promenade Beach, near the Gandhi Statue and the French War Memorial, making it an important part of the town’s seafront.

  • Built: The Old Lighthouse was constructed in 1836 during the French colonial period, when Puducherry was under French control. It served as a crucial navigational aid for ships approaching the coast.

  • Architecture: The lighthouse has a cylindrical tower made of masonry, standing at about 29 meters (95 feet) tall. It features classic colonial-style architecture with a lantern at the top, which originally housed an oil-powered lamp to guide ships at sea.

  • Functionality: For nearly a century, the Old Lighthouse was operational and provided guidance to vessels navigating the Bay of Bengal, marking the entry into Puducherry’s port. 

  • The Old Lighthouse is a reminder of Puducherry’s colonial past and its role as a vital trading post for the French East India Company. It symbolizes the town’s maritime heritage and its importance as a port city during the 19th century.

  • Tourist Attraction: It is part of the larger French Quarter of Puducherry, where colonial-era architecture and landmarks are preserved, giving visitors a glimpse into the city’s unique blend of Indian and French cultures.

  • Events and Celebrations: The area around the lighthouse is often a focal point for cultural events and festivals in Puducherry, especially during the annual French National Day (Bastille Day) celebrations.