Vibrant Heart of Antananarivo: Place de l'Indépendance
Discover the vibrant heart of Antananarivo at Place de l'Indépendance, a historic square filled with culture, food, and lively local gatherings.
A brief summary to Place de I'Independance
- Antananarivo, MG
Place de l'Indépendance is the cultural and social nucleus of Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital. This bustling town square is not only a historical landmark but also a vibrant meeting point for locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by colonial-era buildings, the square is often filled with the sounds of laughter, the aroma of local street food, and the vibrant colors of market stalls that pop up throughout the day. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the nearby cafes, or simply soak in the lively ambiance that defines this iconic location. As you explore the square, you'll notice the impressive statues and monuments that pay homage to Madagascar's rich history and struggle for independence. The square often hosts various cultural events, including music performances and festivals, making it an ideal spot for those looking to experience the local culture firsthand. Don't forget to wander around the surrounding streets where you'll find shops selling handcrafted goods and local delicacies. For those interested in photography, Place de l'Indépendance offers countless opportunities to capture the essence of Antananarivo. The interplay of historical architecture and the dynamic life of the square creates stunning backdrops for both amateur and professional photographers. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or engage with the local community, this town square is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the spirit of Madagascar.
Local tips
- Visit in the morning for a quieter experience and enjoy fresh local pastries from nearby bakeries.
- Interact with local vendors to learn about traditional Malagasy crafts and foods.
- Keep an eye out for cultural events and festivals that often take place in the square.
- Bring a camera; the square offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, as you may want to explore the surrounding streets.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Ampefiloha, head south on Avenue de l'Indépendance (or Avenue de l'Indépendance Ampefiloha). Continue straight for about 1 kilometer until you reach the intersection with Rue de la Réunion. You should see the prominent buildings of the Place de l'Indépendance ahead. The square is located at the coordinates -18.909981 latitude and 47.5251831 longitude.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can ride from Ampefiloha to Place de l'Indépendance. Travel south on Avenue de l'Indépendance for approximately 1 kilometer. Be cautious of pedestrians and other vehicles on the road. You can park your bicycle nearby, but make sure to secure it properly.
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Public Transport (Taxi-Brousse)
If you prefer using public transport, find a nearby taxi-brousse station in Ampefiloha. Take a taxi-brousse heading towards Analakely. The fare is usually around 2000-3000 Ariary (about $0.50 - $0.75). Once you arrive at the Analakely station, walk approximately 500 meters southwest along Avenue de l'Indépendance to reach Place de l'Indépendance.
Attractions Nearby to Place de I'Independance
- Ambohitsorohitra Palace
- Analakely Market
- Musée d’Art et d’Archéologie
- Ambohijatovo Garden
- French Institute Of Madagascar
- Lake Anosy
- Projet Touristique
- Monument de l’Ange Noir
- Direction des Archives Nationales
- Lac Anosy
- Pirates Museum
- Central Park
- Madarail S.A.
- Viewpoint (Staircase leading up to the cathedral)
- Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Andohalo
Landmarks nearby to Place de I'Independance
- Le Louvre Hotel & Spa
- Hôtel Colbert - SPA & Casino
- Hotel Restaurant La Varangue
- Office National du Tourisme de Madagascar
- Nerone Ristorante Italiano (Madagascar)
- CITY CENTER
- La petite Brasserie
- Radisson Serviced Apartments Antananarivo City Center
- Irish Pub Tana
- Isoraka
- Sakamanga Hôtel
- Carrefour Ankorondrano
- Dun Huang
- Madagascar Travel and Tours - MTT Group
- EKAR Faravohitra