WelcomHeritage Calve, Puducherry

Historical Background

Not much was known about the history of Pondicherry before the foreign settlement started. There are evidences of the Pallava, Chola and the Vijayanagar empires around the city. What is interesting are the relics of Arekmedu, the famous archaeological city with a port, through which major trade was conducted with the Roman Empire. It was through this port that India used to export silk, spices, even birds, lions, elephants to the Roman Empire in exchange for gold.

Around the 1760's, the British destroyed the city including the fort. When the French reoccupied it, most of the buildings were reconstructed but not the fort. In the latter part of the 18th and early 19th century, Pondicherry again fell into British hands and all construction activity came to a standstill. Most of the present day buildings came up in the 19th century, which also marked the advent of water supply in the city and the railway link with British India. By the 20th century, the city had expanded to include many neighboring villages, although few changes were made in the inner city.

Brief Description

WelcomHeritage recently added its very first property in the picturesque city of Pondicherry - now known as Puducherry. This splendid heritage property WelcomHeritage Calve, was owned by a Chettiar family and dates back to more than 150 years - when the region was a splendid example of the distinctive architecture of that period. The result of extensive and meticulous restoration has ensured that the bungalow continues to retain a true image of its heritage. Its unmistakable French ambience can be seen in its tall columns, wooden shutters, tiled flooring, fine woodwork and circular balconies with wrought iron railings that jut out over the tiled roof of the verandah below.The property's 11 air conditioned rooms are set with period furniture and soft furnishings in keeping with the property's heritage status. Continental, Indian and local cuisine along with popular French dishes are served.