AVMS

Overview

Our Lady of Angels Church or Karaikal Church in the oldest church in Karaikal within the Union Territory of Pondicherry. This Neo-Gothic built in 1822 was commissioned by the French Colonial Empire replacing the original church built in 1739 that faced destruction at the hands of the British. Standing at a height of 133 ft (41 m), the church is the tallest building in Karaikal, a testament to French craftsmanship during its reconstruction in 1891. Functioning actively, the annual ten-day Thetheravu Matha festival takes place every 15 August, featuring a chariot procession carrying the image of Mary through the surrounding streets.

Architecture

Located on Church Street, named after the church, the Neo-Gothic architecture includes a main chapel, a 133 ft (41 m) tower with a dome-shaped roof, and a worship hall. The tower, standing at 133 ft (41 m), has an octagonal base hosting three clocks. Five sizable bells produce resonant tones audible up to 5 km (3.1 mi) away. Stained glass windows and marble altars, likely added in 1739, adorn the interior. While the original altar housed a statue of Our Lady of Angels, it now features a Holy Cross. Within the church premises, an orphanage cares for 40 boys. Recognized as a significant town landmark and a popular tourist destination, the church stands as a historical and cultural testament in Karaikal.

How To Reach

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By Road

The Church can be reached through roadways NH 32 and regular bus services available from Chennai or Pondicherry to Karaikal.

By Train

Karaikal has its own railway station and there are regular trains from Chennai.

By Air

The nearest airport to Karaikal is Pondycherry Airport located 135kms away or Trichy International Airport which is in 160kms approximately.