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Soarano Railway Station
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Landmark
Soarano Railway Station in Antananarivo is a distinguished example of early 20th-century French colonial architecture. Built between 1908 and 1910 under the direction of architect Fouchard, it served as the central hub for the Tananarive-Côte Est (TCE) railway line. The building features an elegant stone facade, tall arched windows, and a classic mansard roof, lending a European flair to the heart of the Malagasy capital. During its peak, the station was a gateway to the outside world, connecting the highlands with the vital port of Toamasina. Although regular passenger rail services have largely ceased today, the building has been meticulously restored and repurposed into a commercial center housing shops and restaurants. The spacious hall and preserved architectural details evoke the era of steam locomotives and the beginning of Madagascar's industrial development. Soarano Station remains a significant historical landmark that has profoundly shaped the urban development of Antananarivo.
- Location: Madagascar
- 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
Soarano Railway Station in Antananarivo is a historic building with colonial architecture, now used as a business and exhibition center. The interior is generally accessible but not continuously open for tourists.
Typical hours
The building is open during office hours, usually weekdays from morning to evening. Exhibitions often have their own opening times - check ahead.
Photography
The exterior facade with colonial architecture is a popular photo subject. Inside, photography is usually allowed in exhibition halls but not in office areas.
Time needed
A visit lasts about 30 minutes to one hour, depending on interest in the exhibitions. If you only view the building from outside, 15 minutes suffice.
Combine with
The station is in central Antananarivo, near Analakely Market and the Avenue of Independence. A city tour can be easily added.
Getting there
Soarano Station is easily reachable on foot from the city center or by taxi. It lies on a main road served by public transport.
Insider tip
Ask at the entrance about current exhibitions - there are often temporary art or cultural events. The station is also a good meeting point for city guided tours.
Geography
Facts
- The construction of the station took place from 1908 to 1910.
- It was the starting point for the 371 km TCE line to Toamasina.
- The name 'Soarano' translates to 'Good Water' in Malagasy.
- The building was designed by architect Fouchard in a French style.
- Today, the station houses a well-known gourmet restaurant and retail spaces.
- It is regarded as one of the best-preserved colonial buildings in Madagascar.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Soarano Railway Station (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Soarano Railway Station?
A historical architectural landmark of the city.
Can one still take trains there?
Operations are very limited; it is now more of a tourist center.
Are there shops there?
Yes, there are some small boutiques and restaurants in the building.
Is the building accessible to tourists?
Yes, visitors are welcome at any time.
Is the site photogenic?
Very, especially the facade and the historic lobby.
Soarano Railway Station: where is it located?
Soarano Railway Station is located in Madagascar.
Soarano Railway Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Soarano Railway Station: why is it worth visiting?
Soarano Railway Station in Antananarivo is a distinguished example of early 20th-century French colonial architecture.
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Agricultural center in Madagascar.
Tsiroanomandidy
Zebu market center in Madagascar.
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Highland city in Madagascar.
Faratsiho
Highest city in Madagascar.
Ambatolampy
Aluminum foundry town in Madagascar.
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Former airport location in Madagascar.
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History & landmarks
Avenue of Independence
The main axis of downtown Antananarivo, flanked by colonial arcades leading to the old railway station.
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.
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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.
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Cathedral of Faravohitra
A Catholic brick church located on one of the highest hills in Antananarivo.
Trano Gasy Houses
A traditional Malagasy architectural style characterized by tall, narrow brick houses with wooden balconies in Antananarivo.
More places
JB Confectionery Factory
One of the best-known manufacturers of biscuits, chocolate and other sweets in Antananarivo.
Historical Zoma Market
Once the world's second-largest open-air market, a central trading hub in the 19th and 20th centuries.
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.
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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.