Rova of Antananarivo
Analamanga Region
The Rova of Antananarivo, also known locally as Rovan'i Manjakamiadana, is a royal palace complex situated on the highest hill of Analamanga in Madagascar's capital city. It served as the residence of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina during the 17th and 18th centuries and later of the rulers of the unified Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. Founded by King Andrianjaka around 1610-1630 after capturing the hill from the Vazimba, the Rova originally consisted of three buildings and a royal tomb site. Over time, it expanded to house approximately twenty structures at its peak under King Andrianampoinimerina in the late 18th century, before being reduced to eleven by the late 20th century. The complex includes the prominent Manjakamiadana palace, built initially of wood for Queen Ranavalona I between 1839 and 1841 and later encased in stone in 1867 for Queen Ranavalona II, reflecting a blend of Malagasy and European architectural influences. Other notable structures include Tranovola, the first multi-story building with verandas in the Rova, which inspired architectural trends in the highlands, as well as traditional wooden houses for the nobility, a Protestant chapel, and nine royal tombs. A devastating fire in 1995 severely damaged the complex shortly before its planned UNESCO World Heritage inscription, but restoration efforts have since been undertaken to preserve its historical and cultural significance. The Rova remains a powerful symbol of Madagascar's royal heritage and political history, attracting visitors interested in its architecture, history, and role in the nation's identity.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during the dry season to avoid rain and enjoy clearer views from the hilltop. It is advisable to check ahead for opening hours and any guided tours available. Tickets can often be purchased on-site, but pre-booking may be recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts might be available for students, seniors, or groups. Photography is generally permitted, but visitors should respect any restricted areas, especially around royal tombs and restored buildings.
Interesting facts
- •The Rova occupies the highest point in Analamanga, the central hill of Antananarivo.
- •The Manjakamiadana palace was originally built of wood and later encased in stone by a Scottish artisan missionary.
- •Tranovola was the first multi-story building with verandas in the Rova and influenced 19th-century highland architecture.
- •The site contains nine royal tombs and a stone Protestant chapel, highlighting the religious diversity of the monarchy.
- •The 1995 fire occurred just before the Rova was to be inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with some rumors suggesting politically motivated arson.
History
The Rova of Antananarivo was established in the early 17th century by Merina King Andrianjaka after he seized the Analamanga hill from the Vazimba people.
Initially a small fortified royal compound, it grew significantly under successive Merina monarchs, reaching about twenty buildings by the late 18th century.
The 19th century saw the construction of key palaces such as Manjakamiadana and Tranovola, reflecting European architectural influences.
The monarchy ended in 1896, and the Rova's structures declined over time.
In 1995, a devastating fire destroyed much of the complex, but restoration efforts have been underway since then to preserve this symbol of Madagascar's royal and political history.
Place Guide
Manjakamiadana Palace1839-1841 (wooden), 1867 (stone encasement)
The largest and most prominent palace in the Rova complex, originally built in wood for Queen Ranavalona I and later encased in stone for Queen Ranavalona II. It exemplifies a blend of Malagasy royal architecture and European influence and is being restored to house a museum of royal artifacts.
Tranovola Palace1819
A smaller wooden palace constructed in 1819 for King Radama I by Creole trader Louis Gros. It was the first multi-story building with verandas in the Rova, setting an architectural trend across the highlands for two-storey houses with verandas.
Besakanaearly 17th century
One of the earliest buildings in the Rova, erected in the early 17th century by King Andrianjaka. It is considered the throne of the kingdom and holds significant symbolic importance as a seat of royal authority.
MahitsielafanjakaUnknown
A later building within the Rova complex that came to represent the seat of ancestral spiritual authority, reflecting the spiritual dimension of the monarchy alongside its political power.
Fiangonana (Protestant Chapel)19th century
A stone chapel within the Rova grounds serving the religious needs of the monarchy, illustrating the influence of Protestant missionaries and Christianity in 19th-century Madagascar.
Contact
Phone: 034 20 270 51
