Queen's Palace (Manjakamiadana)
Analamanga Region
The Queen's Palace, known locally as Manjakamiadana, is the centerpiece of the Rova of Antananarivo, a historic royal palace complex in Madagascar's capital. It was originally built as a wooden palace between 1839 and 1841 for Queen Ranavalona I by the French craftsman Jean Laborde. Later, in 1867, the palace was encased in stone under Queen Ranavalona II, with work by James Cameron, a Scottish missionary and artisan. The palace stands atop Analamanga hill, the highest point in Antananarivo, symbolizing the political power of the Merina Kingdom. The Rova complex includes multiple structures reflecting various architectural styles and historical periods, including the smaller wooden Tranovola palace and several royal tombs. The palace and surrounding buildings were largely destroyed by a fire in 1995 but have been undergoing restoration since then, with plans to convert Manjakamiadana into a museum showcasing royal artifacts. The site represents the political and cultural heart of the Merina monarchy from the 17th century through the 19th century and remains a significant symbol of Madagascar's royal heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours ahead of time and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the complex history and architecture. The best time to visit is during the dry season to avoid weather disruptions. Tickets may be limited, so purchasing in advance or booking through official channels is recommended. Discounts are sometimes available for students and groups. Respectful attire is suggested due to the site's cultural importance.
Interesting facts
- •The Queen's Palace was originally a wooden structure built by a French craftsman, later encased in stone by a Scottish missionary.
- •The Tranovola palace within the Rova was the first multi-story building with verandas in the complex and influenced 19th-century highland architecture.
- •The Rova complex includes nine royal tombs and a Protestant chapel, reflecting the spiritual and political significance of the site.
- •Rumors suggest the 1995 fire was politically motivated, though officially it was declared an accident.
- •Restoration efforts have been supported by international donations and government funds, aiming to preserve Madagascar's royal heritage.
History
The Rova of Antananarivo was founded in the early 17th century by Merina King Andrianjaka, who established the first fortified royal structure after capturing Analamanga hill.
Over the centuries, the complex expanded to include around twenty buildings by the late 18th century under King Andrianampoinimerina.
The Queen's Palace was built in the early 19th century and later transformed from wood to stone in the 1860s.
The monarchy ended in 1896, but the site remained a symbol of royal authority.
A devastating fire in 1995 destroyed much of the complex, prompting extensive restoration efforts that continue today.
Place Guide
Manjakamiadana (Queen's Palace)1839-1841 (wooden), 1867 (stone)
The largest and most prominent building in the Rova complex, originally built between 1839 and 1841 as a wooden palace for Queen Ranavalona I and later encased in stone. It symbolizes royal authority and is being restored to serve as a museum of royal artifacts.
Tranovola Palace1819
A smaller wooden palace constructed in 1819 by Creole trader Louis Gros for King Radama I. It was the first multi-story building with verandas in the Rova and influenced the architectural style of the highlands.
BesakanaEarly 17th century
Erected in the early 17th century by King Andrianjaka, Besakana is considered the throne of the kingdom and a key structure symbolizing royal power within the Rova.
MahitsielafanjakaUnknown
A later building within the Rova complex representing the seat of ancestral spiritual authority, highlighting the cultural and religious significance of the site.
Fiangonana (Protestant Chapel)19th century
A stone chapel within the Rova grounds reflecting the religious influence of Protestantism during the monarchy period.
Contact
Phone: 034 20 270 51
