Presidential Palace

Antananarivo


This beautiful 19th-century manor was an official French residence for many years. It became the Malagasy presidential palace in 1975 and remained so until president Didier Ratsiraka decided to build a more modern complex about 15km south of the capital in 1991. The mansion remains an official residence but is generally quiet. No photos allowed.

In a bid to balance the colonial architectural influence, Andry Rajoelina, president of the high transitional authority between 2009 and 2013 and then president from 2019, ordered that a replica of the King’s palace at Ambohimanga be built right next to the presidential palace.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Antananarivo attractions

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2. Lac Anosy

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Antananarivo’s heart-shaped lake lies in the southern part of town. It's particularly lovely in October, when the jacaranda trees lining its shores are…

3. Monument aux Morts

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4. Analakely Market

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5. Gare Soarano

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6. Micheline

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7. Musée de la Photo

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8. Musée Andafivaratra

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Housed in a magnificent pink baroque palace, this museum is the former home of Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony, the power behind the throne of the three…

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