Q31. What is the architectural style of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Puducherry?
a) Baroque
b) Romanesque
c) Gothic Revival
d) Byzantine
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Gothic Revival
Explanation: The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Puducherry is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture. Built in 1908 by French missionaries, it features characteristic Gothic elements such as pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large stained glass windows. The church’s design reflects the 19th-century revival of medieval Gothic architectural styles.
Q32. How many main columns support the structure of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus?
a) 18
b) 24
c) 28
d) 32
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) 24
Explanation: The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is supported by 24 main columns. These columns are a crucial part of the church’s structural design and contribute to its impressive interior. The number of columns is significant in the overall architectural plan and helps create the spacious and grand atmosphere inside the basilica.
Q33. In which year was the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus elevated to the status of a minor basilica?
a) 2008
b) 2009
c) 2010
d) 2011
Show Answer
Correct Answer: d) 2011
Explanation: The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was elevated to the status of a minor basilica in 2011. This elevation was granted by the Holy See with a papal brief dated June 24, 2011. The official announcement was made by Archbishop Antony Anandarayar of Pondicherry and Cuddalore on July 29, 2011, marking a significant milestone in the church’s history.
Q34. Which famous French architect was involved in planning the layout of Puducherry town?
a) Le Corbusier
b) Gustave Eiffel
c) Auguste Perret
d) Hector Guimard
Show Answer
Correct Answer: a) Le Corbusier
Explanation: Le Corbusier, the renowned Swiss-French architect, played a significant role in planning the layout of Puducherry town in the 1950s. He was invited to design the urban plan for the city, and his influence can be seen in the town’s grid pattern and the division into French and Tamil quarters. This involvement of Le Corbusier contributed to the unique blend of colonial and indigenous urban planning in Puducherry.
Q35. Which church in Puducherry is known as the “mother church” of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Pondicherry and Cuddalore?
a) Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
b) Our Lady of Angels Church
c) Immaculate Conception Cathedral
d) St. Andrew’s Church
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Explanation: The Immaculate Conception Cathedral, also known as “Samba Kovil,” is considered the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Pondicherry and Cuddalore. Located on Mission Street, this 300-year-old cathedral was initially financed and built by Louis XIV, King of France, in 1698. It has undergone several reconstructions and renovations over the centuries, playing a central role in the Catholic history of Puducherry.
Q36. What is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry called?
a) Raj Bhavan
b) Raj Niwas
c) Government House
d) French Residency
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Raj Niwas
Explanation: Raj Niwas is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. Originally built during the French colonial period, it serves as the administrative headquarters and the official residence of the highest-ranking official in the Union Territory. Raj Niwas holds significant historical and architectural importance and is open to the public for guided tours.
Q37. Which famous experimental township is located near Puducherry?
a) Lavasa
b) Auroville
c) Whitefield
d) Magarpatta
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Auroville
Explanation: Auroville is an experimental township located near Puducherry, founded in 1968. It aims to promote international unity, sustainable living, and spiritual harmony. People from all over the world come to Auroville to experience its peaceful and inclusive community lifestyle.
Q38. What is the name of the prominent beachfront in Puducherry known for its scenic beauty?
a) Paradise Beach
b) Promenade Beach
c) Auroville Beach
d) Serenity Beach
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Promenade Beach
Explanation: Promenade Beach, also known as Rock Beach, is a prominent beachfront in Puducherry known for its scenic beauty. It stretches along the Bay of Bengal and is a popular spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the views of the sea.
Q39. Which language, apart from Tamil, is widely spoken in Puducherry due to its colonial history?
a) Spanish
b) Portuguese
c) French
d) Dutch
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) French
Explanation: French is widely spoken in Puducherry due to its colonial history. Puducherry was a French settlement until 1954, and the French influence is still evident in the language, culture, and architecture of the region.
Q40. Which famous temple in Puducherry is built in a pyramid shape resembling the great pyramids of Egypt?
a) Varadaraja Perumal Temple
b) Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple
c) Manakula Vinayagar Temple
d) Kamakshi Amman Temple
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple
Explanation: The Sri Karneshwar Nataraja Temple in Puducherry is built in a pyramid shape, resembling the great pyramids of Egypt. Located on Pudhukuppam Beach, this unique temple is one of the most unusual and beautiful temples in India.