Years after its reconstruction, Manampisoa Palace is showing new signs of deterioration. Damage to its roof, worsened by Cyclone Gezani, is prompting authorities to prepare fresh restoration work and reconsider choices made during previous repairs.
At the heart of Rovan'i Madagasikara, Manampisoa Palace now displays multiple degradation signs. Its slate roof is damaged in places, exposing parts of the building to the elements. Winds from Cyclone Gezani have aggravated the situation. Beyond recent damage, heritage officials are also questioning certain aspects of the reconstruction carried out years ago.
Built entirely of wood, Manampisoa dates from an era when stone and brick, considered "dead materials," were still forbidden in Imerina construction. The original building had withstood nearly a century. The more recent reconstruction, completed under former minister Lalatiana Andriantogarivo's tenure, already shows degradation in certain elements after just a few years.
Facing this situation, the Office of Rovan'i Madagasikara (Ormada) indicates that a restoration file is being prepared. Technical studies are currently underway by engineers to assess the building's condition and determine necessary work. "This is not a forgotten matter. Manampisoa is among the ministry's priorities. We cannot announce a precise timeline, but we want progress, even if gradual," explains an Ormada member.
According to Office officials, the ministry had been alerted to certain buildings' condition before recent social media images circulated. An initial study had been conducted and a project developed. A budget had also been allocated, but its status requires clarification. "We must first clarify where the money went before proceeding," Ormada states. The file has already been presented to the government council.
Concerns extend beyond the roof alone. "The real problem isn't just roof holes. It's Manampisoa's very architecture that's being questioned, as it doesn't meet architectural standards," Ormada clarifies.
A new study should establish the extent of degradation and necessary interventions more precisely. An expanded scientific committee should also be established to guide next steps, particularly regarding wood and material selection.
Reconstruction Under Review
The Ministry of Communication and Culture also raises questions about certain choices made during previous work. "The problem mainly concerns how Manampisoa Palace work was carried out," a ministry member explains.
Certain building elements, including the staircase, were apparently constructed differently from their previous configuration. According to officials, expert recommendations weren't always sufficiently considered during reconstruction.
Material selection is also among examined points. "We must respect authenticity as much as possible. If the roof was slate, we must use slate of the same quality," the ministry continues. The durability of wood used in reconstruction is thus being evaluated, with officials believing it may not have the same characteristics as the original building's wood.
The ministry now wants to determine the most suitable methods for new intervention and bring restoration into compliance with heritage conservation principles. Financing remains crucial. A budget had been allocated for work but apparently wasn't used. A request must be presented to the ministerial council to obtain necessary restoration funds, planned for September. Exceptional resources from the Communication and Culture Ministry could also be mobilized.
Once financing is secured, its use must follow public finance procedures. Before work begins, the scientific committee must also meet to precisely define restoration modalities.
Like several royal complex buildings, Manampisoa was affected by the 1995 fire that devastated part of the Rova, including Manjakamiadana Palace. Its reconstruction began in 2022.