Page 92 - HUDCO-DA 21

Introduction

Pondicherry, has an interesting cross-cultural history and
its built form is one of the major components lending a
unique identity to the town. The old town of Pondicherry,
boulevard town, which is a showcase of the two distinct
architectural styles-French and tamil is recognized in
principle as a conservation zone by the government of
Pondicherry.

Pondicherry does not have a large number of monumental
buildings but is noteworthy for its local architecture. The
term heritage is a fluid term constituting a diverse array
of elements from individual buildings to entire precincts
of towns, monuments, artifacts, structures, even parks,
gardens and landscapes. Heritage is about the value
people attach to places and creating local identity and
distinctiveness.

The french precinct is defined as the area bounded by the
Sardar Patel Salai to the north, Goubert Avenue to the
east, Subbiah Salai to the south and grand canal to the
west. It is originally developed along the coastline around
the government square.

Boulevard Town Map Important buildings like the customs house, the tribunal,
the court etc. were located along the Goubert Avenue. The
rest of the french precincts mostly comprised of residential
buildings.

Historic Significance

The building functioned as the Court until 2008. It was
built on the site of the Hotel de la Marine built in 1766; it
was the Hôtel du commandant du génie in 1788, and the
Cour d’appel from 1884 and 1955.

Old District Court

OLD DISTRICT COURT, GOUBERT AVENUE, PONDICHERRY

74