The Rova Manjakamiadana
THE ROVA MANJAKAMIADANA
The “Rova of Manjakamiadana“, jewel of Antananarivo.
Former palace where kings and queens lived in the XIXe century, it is now one of the most attractive monuments in the world.
Located in the district of Andafivaratra, in Andohalo, it is perceptible from everywhere and still represents a strong historical value.
The royal palace of Manjakamiadana, currently a tourist site makes the jewel of Madagascar. It is among the most recommended tourist sites of Antananarivo visited by a good number of tourists from all over the world.
Formerly it was the main residence of the kings and queens of Analamanga under the reign of all the sovereigns going from Andrianampoinimerina to Ranavalona III. It kept a necropolis of 9 tombs and 5 monumental palaces of which the “Tranovola, Manampisoa, Besakana, Mahitsielafanjaka, Tranofitomiandalana” being in its quarters.
The building was rebuilt at the request of Queen Ranavalona I on the plans of the ingenious Frenchman Jean Laborde.
Years later, the missionary and architect James Cameron rebuilt it in stone. At the same time he built a Protestant temple following the orders of Queen Rasoherina.
Tranovola
Manampisoa
Besakana
Mahitsielafanjaka
Tranofitomiandalana
Fiangonana Anaty rova
Its style of architecture made by the architect Jean Laborde, is simple and unique in its kind in a traditional Merina decor, an Italian and Asian design. Depending on the sovereign residing there, its design changed frequently until its fire on December 6, 1995. All precious objects found there frame, carpentry, works of art and precious paintings leave in smoke.
Today, it is the object of tomb of the history of the ancient times of kings and their reigns. Its cultural value cannot match with the other palaces of Madagascar because of its power.
Of great notoriety for the Malagasy people, it represents the power and the force extending on all the island of Madagascar. Its simple sight offers a glimpse of the time of the kings.
Its building ended up as a national heritage and art museum. It still displays its Asian, European and traditional Merina style. We can also see in its surroundings, the small pavilion raised at the time of Andrianampoinimerina.
The “Rovan’i Manjakamiadana” better known in Malagasy is one of the important Merina royal garrisons since the XVIIth century.
Standing on one of the twelve hills of the city of Antananarivo, it offers a breathtaking view of the entire Central Highlands region. Seen from any place of its capital, after its fire it is slowly renewed with time.
The Queen’s palace has resumed the renovations from 2006 due to lack of funding. The main goal of this work is to restore its former glory. This building is the work of several works until today.
Currently, a concrete amphitheater has just been built and added to the symbol of the Merina monarchy. Of a Roman style, it can accommodate more than 400 people during cultural events.
The habits and customs governing this place must be respected by anyone going there.
With a guide or without, the wonders found there will amaze you.
Lys Carène ANDRIAMANANTSOA.
