Madagascar – Antananarivo, capital of Madagascar

Located at an altitude of 1,300 meters, the city of Antananarivo is divided into three areas: the lower city, the middle city, and the upper city. With its development and expansion, the authorities are committed to preserving the city's cultural heritage. At the top of the main hill, there is a magnificent viewpoint overlooking Antananarivo, with Lake Anosy and Mahamasina in the foreground. A visit to a "Rova," a royal palace, or one of the wildlife parks is highly recommended to discover the fauna and flora found throughout the island: lemurs, colorful endemic birds, and frogs unique to Madagascar. The Rova of Manjakamiadana is the symbol of the Merina monarchy, the last royal dynasty in the country. Built in the 19th century, initially of wood and later of granite, the palace lost its political function with the arrival of French colonists in 1896 and the abolition of the monarchy. On November 6, 1995, a fire ravaged the site, weakening the structure down to its wooden foundations. Its restoration was launched in 2019 by President Andry Rajoelina. A Roman-style concrete amphitheater, with a capacity of 400 seats, built within the palace grounds, will host performances recounting the history of Madagascar.

Analakely and Independence Avenue is undoubtedly the area most developed by the municipality. It's a major avenue connecting the Ambohijatovo roundabout to the old Soarano train station. Along the way, you'll find the Analakely market halls, one of the city's largest markets where all kinds of goods are sold side-by-side. To the north of the city lies the business district known as Ankorondrano. The twelve sacred hills of Imerina are also worth exploring. A point of interest is the Ivato crocodile farm, located just fifteen kilometers away.