Antananarivo is the capital of Madagascar. It was earlier known as Tananarive and is known locally as Tana. Founded in the 17th century, it was the capital of the Hova chiefs. The city rises on a high hill. Tall narrow houses rise at different vertical levels along the 12 hills of the city. On a rocky ridge, at the height of 1431m is the Royal Estate, which has palaces built by the Imerina kings. The Imerina kings ruled the town from 1794 till the end of the 19th century.

Among the important buildings and institutions are the University of Madagascar, Catholic cathedrals, French Residency, research institutes and the national library. Industries include tobacco and food processing, manufacturing of leather goods and clothing.

The city suppports a population of over 802,000 and is connected with other parts of the island via railways and the African mainland by air.

special: photo feature of Madagascar

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