Antananarivo Travel Guide

The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga

Located just 12 miles (20km) from Antananarivo, the archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga features a ruined royal city, a burial site and a few other sacred places. A popular destination for local and international pilgrims to visit, this spiritual attraction is considered one of the most sacred places in Madagascar. Set in lush green countryside overlooking a rice paddy, the rooms of the wooden buildings are furnished with goods which include gifts from Queen Victoria. The hill was used by the royal family as their Palace until 1890 when the British traded Madagascar for a free hand in Zanzibar and the French invaded Madagascar, deposing the Queen and exiling her to Algeria. The family was never allowed to return to Madagascar.