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Black Angel of Lake Anosy

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Landmark
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Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)

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The Monument aux Morts, commonly known as the 'Black Angel', stands prominently in the center of Lake Anosy in Antananarivo. It was inaugurated in 1927 during the French colonial period to commemorate the Malagasy soldiers who died fighting for France in World War I. The monument features a bronze angel figure atop a high pedestal, visible from afar as it watches over the city. Access to the monument is provided by a causeway lined with magnificent Jacaranda trees, which bloom in lively purple during the spring. The architecture blends European monumentality with the local setting, creating a space of quiet reflection amidst the busy capital. Every year, official memorial ceremonies are held here, highlighting the shared history between Madagascar and France. For city residents, it is not just a place of remembrance but also a popular photo spot and a symbol of the sacrifices made by the Malagasy people in global conflicts.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C191919171613121315171919
Rain mm475379304159868485584796222388

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Black Angel monument on a small island in Lake Anosy is visible from outside at all times as it stands in a public area. Boat trips to the island are not allowed, but you can view the monument clearly from the shore.
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Typical hours
Since the monument is outdoors, it is theoretically accessible around the clock, but visibility is limited at night. The best time to visit is during daylight hours for good lighting to photograph the black angel.
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Photography
Photograph the monument best from the lake shore to frame the entire island and statue. A telephoto lens helps get closer, and the reflection in the water is a popular subject.
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Time needed
A short visit suffices, about 15 to 20 minutes to view the monument and take a few photos. Plan an additional half hour for a walk around the lake.
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Combine with
Combine a visit to Lake Anosy with a stroll in the nearby Parc de l'Est or Antananarivo Zoo. The monument is centrally located, so you can easily reach other city sights.
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Getting there
The lake is in central Antananarivo, a few minutes' walk from the main train station. You can reach it by taxi or on foot; ample parking is available in the area.
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Insider tip
Visit the monument in the late afternoon when the sunlight casts a golden glow on the statue and lake. Be aware of pickpockets in the busy area, keep valuables secure.

Geography

Coordinates
-18.91780, 47.52170

Facts

  • The monument was officially inaugurated on May 26, 1927.
  • The design of the angel figure was created by the sculptor Barberis.
  • It honors more than 2,300 Malagasy soldiers who perished in World War I.
  • The pedestal stands about 15 meters high, topped by the bronze angel.
  • Lake Anosy, where the monument is located, is a man-made lake.
  • The site is situated in the Mahamasina district, near the government offices.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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SOMACOU Textile FactorySOMACOU Textile Factory1 km · SExplore →
Orange Telecom TowerOrange Telecom Tower2 km · EExplore →
University of Antananarivo CampusUniversity of Antananarivo Campus4 km · NExplore →
Alasora Royal VillageAlasora Royal Village6 km · NWExplore →
Royal Hill of AmbohimangaRoyal Hill of Ambohimanga13 km · EExplore →
Fortifications of AntongonaFortifications of Antongona25 km · SExplore →
Jean Laborde House in MantasoaJean Laborde House in Mantasoa33 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Black Angel of Lake Anosy (10)

Musée d'art et d'archéologie🏛 museum

Art and archaeology museum in Antananarivo, displaying Malagasy artworks and historical finds.

Théatre de verdure Antsahamanitra

Open-air theatre in Antananarivo, surrounded by trees, used for concerts and plays.

Catholic Cathedral of Andohalo

Catholic cathedral on Andohalo hill in Antananarivo, an important place of worship.

Maison Jean Laborde

Historic house of French adventurer Jean Laborde in Antananarivo, now a museum.

Tombeau de Rainiharo

Tomb of Malagasy dignitary Rainiharo in Antananarivo, a historic site.

Malagasy cultural center

Centre promoting Malagasy culture in Antananarivo, with exhibitions and workshops.

ROXY

Cinema and event building in Antananarivo, known for film screenings and cultural events.

Lettres A N T A N A N A R I V O

Large letters 'ANTANANARIVO' in the city, a popular photo spot.

FJKM

Protestant church cultural centre in Antananarivo, venue for community gatherings.

Tranompokonolona Analakely

Theatre building in the Analakely district, used for local stage performances.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Black Angel?
A prominent monument on an island in the middle of the lake.
Can one enter the island?
No, but the monument can be seen very well from the shore.
When is the best time for a visit?
At sunset, the atmosphere at the lake is dreamy.
Can one walk around the lake?
Yes, there is a nice promenade for walking.
Is the place safe for evening walks?
Stay on the busy paths and avoid dark corners.
Black Angel of Lake Anosy: where is it located?
Black Angel of Lake Anosy is located in Madagascar.
Black Angel of Lake Anosy: what is there to see?
Highlights include Musée d'art et d'archéologie, Théatre de verdure Antsahamanitra, Catholic Cathedral of Andohalo.
Black Angel of Lake Anosy: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Black Angel of Lake Anosy: why is it worth visiting?
The Monument aux Morts, commonly known as the 'Black Angel', stands prominently in the center of Lake Anosy in Antananarivo.
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History & landmarks

Palace of Justice Ambatondrafandrana — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
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A historic stone building in classical style that formerly served as the supreme court of the Merina kings.
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Mahamasina Municipal Stadium
Madagascar's largest stadium, used for rugby matches, football tournaments, and national events.
Amparibe Water Tower — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Amparibe Water Tower
A historic water tower from the French colonial era in the Amparibe district of Antananarivo.
Ambatonakanga Memorial Church — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Ambatonakanga Memorial Church
The first stone church in Madagascar, built in memory of the Christian martyrs killed under Queen Ranavalona I.
Avenue of Independence — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Avenue of Independence
The main axis of downtown Antananarivo, flanked by colonial arcades leading to the old railway station.
Trano Gasy Houses — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Trano Gasy Houses
A traditional Malagasy architectural style characterized by tall, narrow brick houses with wooden balconies in Antananarivo.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
An impressive Roman Catholic cathedral in the Andohalo district of Antananarivo, built during the French colonial period.
Analakely Market Pavilions — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Analakely Market Pavilions
A series of historic pavilions in downtown Antananarivo that serve as a covered market.

More places

Ila Fitsarana — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
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Former court of justice of the Malagasy monarchy.
Historical Zoma Market — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Historical Zoma Market
Once the world's second-largest open-air market, a central trading hub in the 19th and 20th centuries.
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Antsahamanitra Martyrs Cliff
The site where Christian martyrs were executed in the 19th century under Queen Ranavalona I.
STAR Brewery Antananarivo — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
STAR Brewery Antananarivo
The headquarters and largest production facility of the famous Malagasy beverage brand in the capital.
Rova of Antananarivo — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Rova of Antananarivo
A royal palace complex that ruled the Kingdom of Madagascar.
Savonnerie Tropicale Soap Factory — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
Savonnerie Tropicale Soap Factory
A traditional company producing detergents and personal care products for the Malagasy market for decades.
Andafiavaratra Palace — Black Angel of Lake Anosy (Madagascar)
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The former prime minister's residence in the 19th century, now a museum.
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One of Madagascar's leading textile manufacturers, specializing in blankets, towels and woven cotton products.