Antananarivo
Antananarivo is the capital of Madagascar and is located almost in the center of Madagascar Island. Located on the Madagascar Plateau, the altitude exceeds 1,200 meters. In the past it was called the Tanana Libre, the French rule, and it is also called Tanana by simply abbreviation. It is the largest city in Madagascar and the center of the Madagascar economy. The population is estimated to be 1,613,375 in 2005. Antananarivo has historically been the capital of the Mary Nine, and Mary Nine is still the majority of the city's population. However, in addition to Mary Nine, other ethnic groups in Madagascar, as well as foreigners, including Chinese, Indians and Europeans, also live. In recent years, rapid expansion has been made with urbanization, and traffic, garbage, environmental pollution, security, water supply, and power problems are occurring. Major buildings and attractions include the recently restored Royal Palace, the Andapia Baratra Palace, the Raiiharo Cemetery, the Zamba Zaza Zoo, the Mahamashina Stadium, the Anoji Temple, the 19th century cathedral, and the Museum of Archeology.