Antananarivo, Capital city in central Madagascar.
Description
Antananarivo is the capital in the central highlands of Madagascar, covering twelve hills connected by steep lanes and stairways. Red brick houses and whitewashed buildings line the narrow streets, while markets and commercial districts fill the valleys below.
History
King Andrianjaka founded the settlement in 1610 as a fortified post on the highest hill of the region. French colonial rulers expanded the city from 1897 onward with administrative buildings and wide boulevards in the lower districts.
Culture
The name means "city of a thousand" and refers to the warriors who once protected the hilltop settlement. Daily life centers around small neighborhoods where vendors sell zebu meat, rice dishes, and tropical fruits in open-air stalls.
Practical
Visitors reach the higher neighborhoods on foot via stairways or shared taxis that wind through the narrow streets. Traffic is heavier during mornings and afternoons, so walking early in the day or in late morning is more comfortable.
Did you know?
The royal palace complex Rova stands on the highest hill, with buildings of wood and stone showing a mix of local craftsmanship and European influence. A fire damaged parts of the compound in 1995, but the walls and some structures remain and offer a wide view over the city.
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Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Antananarivo
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Zoma
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Tranompokonolona Analakely
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387 mPhilibert Tsiranana
1 kmInstitut Français de Madagascar
652 mGrand Hotel Urban
512 mTombeau de Rainiharo
858 mAndohalo
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411 mTeatra Monisipaly
1 kmPlanète Terrasse
271 mScenic viewpoint
622 mScenic viewpoint
895 mScenic viewpoint
280 mMemorial to Victims of 7 February 2009 Riots
151 mAnjely Mainty
741 mStèle MDRM 29 mars 1947
338 mTsangambaton' ny Kolonely Ratsimandrava
863 m50 Taona
1 km50 Taona
959 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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