Charming Architecture
European influence and French Colonization of Madagascar rapidly changed the style of building in many big cities such as Antananarivo, its capital, during the late 19th century.
Here are some places in town you would not like to miss.
Ambohitsorohitra Palace
The Ambohitsorohitra Palace, located near the center of Antananarivo, is built during 1890 - 1892 as a presidential palace. After coup in 2009, it is no longer a residence of the president.
By Lemurbaby - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=27340916
Andafiavaratra Palace
The original palace was built by wood under the supervision of Queen Ranavalona I. In 1872, it was replaced by the current palace according to the plans of British architect William Pool.
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After Madagascar became independent, the palace was used as army barracks, court, school of fine arts, presidential palace and prime minister's office.
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In 1976 the palace burnt down. After some great restoration it houses today an exhibition of precious items which were saved from the fire of the Rova in 1995, such as the red jacket of Radama I, the royal coral jewels, various royal portraits and the diadem of the last queen.
By Alex Dunkel (VisionHolder) - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=12655847
Andohalo Cathedral
Its construction began in 1873 and was completed in 1890 with a design in Gothic style to serves as a Catholic cathedral. It is located in the area of Andohalo in the upper town (haute ville), the facade facing the city center to the west. The cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Antananarivo
Gare Soarano
Gare Soarano or Soarano train station is located at the end of L’Avenue de I’lndependance, the station is the principal railway station in the capital city.
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This old train station doesn’t take much passenger traffic these days, so the lovely building has been converted into a small, upmarket shopping center. There are regular art shows of works by Malagasy artists, as well as boutiques and shops
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Charming Architectures
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