In the year 1895, the then Archbishop Mgr.Gandhi consecrated the Archdiocese of Pondicherry to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He wished to build a new church in devotion to Sacred Heart of Jesus. Rev. Fr. Telesphore Welter, the Parish Priest of Nellithope had prepared the building plan and Parish Priest of Cathedral Rev. Fr. Fourcaud commenced the construction of the new Church in 1902 at the Southern side of Pondicherry Town.

The blessing of the Church and the first Hoy mass was held at the western wing of the present Church by Mgr. Gandhi on 17-12-1907 and the new parish surrounding this Church had been established on 27-01-1908.

This Historical BASILICA is 50 mts. long, 48 mts. wide and 18 mts. high with Latin rite cross shape aerial view is in Gothic style. 24 main columns hold the structure in which we see the biblical word at the entrance written in Latin" I have consecrated this house, that my name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there forever" which reveals the presence of Sacred Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ. Also the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mother Mary carved