Travel Guide Ambohidratrimo

Fifteen minutes from downtown Antananarivo, on a hilltop surrounded by rice paddies, the village of Ambohidratrimo is home to the 18th-century sanctuary of King Andriambelomasina, grandfather of Andrianampoinimerina. Andrianampoinimerina and Andriamanelo had a stone erected in tribute to their ancestors at the site of Andriambelomasina's palace. Today, many people come to gather near the raised stone and invoke the spirits of Andrianampoinimerina and his grandfather to address requests and wishes to them. Indeed, according to Malagasy ancestral religion and the associated beliefs that are still alive and well today, the spirit of each of the three kings is accessible here. Visitors also take away some of the sacred soil collected at the foot of the raised stone.You enter the earthen enclosure, a tamboho wall, of the sanctuary. In the center is a space enclosed by a wooden palisade that surrounds the raised vatolahy stone. To the left, the janitor's small house adjoins a room for meditation, which adjoins the red Valamena room, used to collect donations and offerings in thanks for granted wishes.A visit to the village of Ambohidratrimo, just a few kilometers from the bustling capital, shows just how traditional rites and customs are still alive and well in Madagascar today! Don't hesitate to ask your guide or tour leader.