Ambohitsorohitra Palace, Antananarivo
Ambohitsorohitra Palace, also known as the Presidential Palace, stands as a significant landmark in the heart of Antananarivo. Serving as the official office of the President of Madagascar, the palace holds immense political importance and is a symbol of executive power in the country. Guarded by soldiers, the palace's grounds are strictly off-limits to the public, emphasizing its role as a center of governance and administration.
Constructed between 1890 and 1892 in the rococo style, Ambohitsorohitra Palace boasts a rich architectural heritage. Designed by architect Jully, the palace was initially built as the residence of French General Bompard before serving various governmental functions over the years. From 1960 to 1976, the French Embassy occupied the palace, and from 1976 to 1989, it served as the official residence of President Didier Ratsiraka. Subsequently, the palace was repurposed as the City Hall, accommodating the mayor's office until it was reclaimed as the presidential office by President Marc Ravalomanana.
Since March 2009, Ambohitsorohitra Palace has once again become the official office of the President of Madagascar, currently held by President Andry Rajoelina. As a seat of political power and governance, the palace plays a crucial role in shaping the country's direction and policies.
Constructed between 1890 and 1892 in the rococo style, Ambohitsorohitra Palace boasts a rich architectural heritage. Designed by architect Jully, the palace was initially built as the residence of French General Bompard before serving various governmental functions over the years. From 1960 to 1976, the French Embassy occupied the palace, and from 1976 to 1989, it served as the official residence of President Didier Ratsiraka. Subsequently, the palace was repurposed as the City Hall, accommodating the mayor's office until it was reclaimed as the presidential office by President Marc Ravalomanana.
Since March 2009, Ambohitsorohitra Palace has once again become the official office of the President of Madagascar, currently held by President Andry Rajoelina. As a seat of political power and governance, the palace plays a crucial role in shaping the country's direction and policies.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Antananarivo. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Ambohitsorohitra Palace on Map
Sight Name: Ambohitsorohitra Palace
Sight Location: Antananarivo, Madagascar (See walking tours in Antananarivo)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Antananarivo, Madagascar (See walking tours in Antananarivo)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Create Your Own Walk in Antananarivo
Creating your own self-guided walk in Antananarivo is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Antananarivo Introduction Walking Tour
The capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo, affectionately known by locals as Tana, is the most attractive and visited destination in the country.
Antananarivo was historically the capital of the Merina people, who continue to form the majority of the local population made up of eighteen Malagasy ethnic groups and residents of Chinese, Indian, European, and other origins.
The city was founded... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Antananarivo was historically the capital of the Merina people, who continue to form the majority of the local population made up of eighteen Malagasy ethnic groups and residents of Chinese, Indian, European, and other origins.
The city was founded... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles