Ambohitrombihavana - At the Heart of the Lords' Village

 

Ambohitrombihavana, a small hill of 56 hectares where Andriamboninolona, a pretender to the throne, resided and was buried, was built during the royal period. A peaceful place, somewhat isolated from the city, it tells the story of a prince with a big heart.

 

The hill is located 12km outside of the capital, one hour by road, on the RN2. The village is perched on the hillside. It was  Andriamboninolona, nephew of King Andriamanelo, who erected this district, whose origins can be traced back through time. Suspected of seizing the throne of Andriamanelo, Andriamananitany, Prince Andriamboninolona's father, was killed. Afraid of being subjected to the same fate as his late father, the son left his hometown and moved to Ambohitrombihavana. But when Andriamanelo became old, and since no man can determine the length of his life, but especially out of respect for his mother's counsel, he sent for his nephew and

made him return to his empire.

 

Without much conviction, Andrianamboninolona returned to his uncle Andriamanelo, who was trying to make amends for his mistakes. However, known for his great heart, Andriamboninolona accepted his apology by saying "ity vohitra omby havana" or "this hill can accommodate the whole family", hence the origin of the name "Ambohitrombihavana".

Ambohitrombihavana is also a pleasant place to escape the urban atmosphere of the city of Antananarivo. From here, one has a magnificent panoramic view over Analamanga and the Imerina mountains. It is worth taking the time to picnic by the side of the RN2 national road and to have a look at the natural sights of rice fields, hills and rivers. The place is also famous for the fanorona (Malagasy chess game) and the cockfights that take place every Sunday afternoon.