Pirates Museum Antananarivo🏛 museum
The Pirates Museum in Antananarivo tells the intriguing story of the legendary pirate republic of Libertalia on the coast of Madagascar.
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Avenue of Independence
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Landmark
The Avenue of Independence (Avenue de l'Indépendance) is the central thoroughfare of Antananarivo and the beating heart of the Malagasy capital. Stretching from the Soarano Railway Station to the bustling Analakely district, the avenue is lined with iconic colonial-era buildings featuring characteristic arcades. These structures now house a variety of shops, banks, and hotels, maintaining the area's status as a commercial hub. Its name commemorates Madagascar's independence from French rule in 1960. Historically, the avenue has been the primary stage for major political rallies, national celebrations, and public demonstrations that have shaped the country's history. The wide sidewalks and central flowerbeds provide a rare open space in the densely populated city, while the nearby Analakely market adds an animated, chaotic energy to the surroundings. It remains the most important urban space and a symbol of national identity.
- Location: Madagascar
- Top sights: Pirates Museum Antananarivo · I Love Antananarivo Sign
- Nearby: Ambatolampy (38 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 475 | 379 | 304 | 159 | 86 | 84 | 85 | 58 | 47 | 96 | 222 | 388 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Avenue of Independence (Avenue de l'Indépendance) in Antananarivo is a public street freely accessible at all times. The colonial arcades and the area can be explored on foot.
Typical hours
Being a public street, there are no fixed opening hours. Shops and cafés under the arcades have regular business hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Photography
Photography is allowed along the entire avenue, with the colonial architecture providing great subjects. Watch out for traffic when taking photos on the street.
Time needed
A stroll along the avenue takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you browse the shops or stop at a café, allow an hour.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the old railway station of Antananarivo or the Ambohitsorohitra Palace. The Analakely neighborhood with its markets is also nearby.
Getting there
The avenue is in central Antananarivo and can be reached on foot, by taxi, or by bus. Many city sights are within walking distance from here.
Insider tip
Visit the avenue in the morning when life under the arcades starts and the markets open. Try local snacks from street vendors, but watch for hygiene.
Geography
Facts
- The avenue connects the historic Soarano Station with the Analakely market.
- It was modeled after grand French boulevards during the colonial era.
- The iconic arcades house some of the city's oldest and most famous hotels.
- It is the official site for the annual Independence Day parade on June 26.
- The street was originally named Avenue Fallières before 1960.
- It serves as the main venue for public gatherings and national celebrations.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Avenue of Independence (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the avenue pedestrian-friendly?
Yes, there are wide sidewalks.
What is there to see?
Many shops and historical buildings.
When is the best time?
During the day in nice weather.
Is it safe?
As in every city, watch your bag.
Are there cafes?
Yes, some good places to sit.
Avenue of Independence: where is it located?
Avenue of Independence is located in Madagascar.
Avenue of Independence: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pirates Museum Antananarivo, I Love Antananarivo Sign.
Avenue of Independence: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Avenue of Independence: why is it worth visiting?
The Avenue of Independence (Avenue de l'Indépendance) is the central thoroughfare of Antananarivo and the beating heart of the Malagasy capital.
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History & landmarks
🗺️
Soarano Railway Station
A historic railway station in Antananarivo featuring colonial architecture, now used as a business and exhibition center.
Amparibe Water Tower
A historic water tower from the French colonial era in the Amparibe district of Antananarivo.
Ambatonakanga Memorial Church
The first stone church in Madagascar, built in memory of the Christian martyrs killed under Queen Ranavalona I.
🗺️
Mahamasina Municipal Stadium
Madagascar's largest stadium, used for rugby matches, football tournaments, and national events.
Black Angel of Lake Anosy
A war memorial in the shape of a black angel on an island in Lake Anosy, dedicated to the fallen of World War I.
Analakely Market Pavilions
A series of historic pavilions in downtown Antananarivo that serve as a covered market.
Trano Gasy Houses
A traditional Malagasy architectural style characterized by tall, narrow brick houses with wooden balconies in Antananarivo.
🗺️
Cathedral of Faravohitra
A Catholic brick church located on one of the highest hills in Antananarivo.
More places
Historical Zoma Market
Once the world's second-largest open-air market, a central trading hub in the 19th and 20th centuries.
JB Confectionery Factory
One of the best-known manufacturers of biscuits, chocolate and other sweets in Antananarivo.
Ila Fitsarana
Former court of justice of the Malagasy monarchy.
STAR Brewery Antananarivo
The headquarters and largest production facility of the famous Malagasy beverage brand in the capital.
Savonnerie Tropicale Soap Factory
A traditional company producing detergents and personal care products for the Malagasy market for decades.
🗺️
Antsahamanitra Martyrs Cliff
The site where Christian martyrs were executed in the 19th century under Queen Ranavalona I.
Andafiavaratra Palace
The former prime minister's residence in the 19th century, now a museum.
🗺️
SOMACOU Textile Factory
One of Madagascar's leading textile manufacturers, specializing in blankets, towels and woven cotton products.