French
missionary zeal in the 17th and 18th centuries saw a number of imposing churches
built here. The Eglise de Sacre Coeur de Jesus, situated on the south boulevard,
stands out as an oriental specimen of Gothic splendour. It contains rare and
beautiful stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ. The
Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee, on Cathedral Street, was first
built in 1692. It took its present shape in 1791.
The Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, in Rue Dumas, is notable for its masonry
- which uses the finest of limestone mixed with white of the egg - making for
a texture identical to that of white marble. It is modelled on the Basilica
at Lourdes, in southern France.
The French Cemetry At Karaikal
For a look-see into a veritable who's who of 19th century Karaikal, wander through
the French cemetery on Rue de Marche (Market Street). Administrators, landlords,
port officials, women and children lie buried under curious headstones with
interest-evoking inscriptions. You will also find an aged, tiny chapel within
the walls.
