Merina of Highlands

Oral Expression 2min → Malgasy Tribes

Merina of Highlands

Ethnicity occupying the northern region in the Highlands of Madagascar, the Merina or "those of the heights" has Malaysian and Indonesian origins.


Origin and geographical location

If initially the people settled in the rich valleys of Sisaony and Ikopa forming the valley of Imerina, it quickly spread into a great kingdom under the reign of Andrianjaka and the various kings and successive sovereigns.
The capital was later named "Imerina Ambaniandro" or country raised under the sun before becoming "Antananarivo" or the city of miles. Historically, during the reign of Andrianjaka, it was guarded by a thousand men that's why → the city of the miles. A dominant ethnic group in comparison with all the other ethnic groups on the Big Island, the Merinas marked the history of the country by the numerous expeditions they conducted throughout the Malagasy territory.
Because of their position, the Merina were the first to open up to foreigners for their knowledge but also to help them in their thirst for conquests. Capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo has 6 regions: Avaradrano, Vakinisisaony, Marovatana, Vonizongo, Imamo and Vakinankaratra.

Everyday life

Among the Merina, there are 3 social castes namely "Andriana" (noble), "Hova" (commoners) and "Mainty", considered as slaves and servants or "Andevo". The Merina are farmers but also breeders.
Us and customs

The Merina practice ancestor worship and circumcision derived from Austronesian culture.
Circumcision, overthrow of the dead or other important events such as the celebration of the Malagasy New Year or "Asaramanitra" are the subject of more or less popular jubilation where the "Hira gasy" (traditional music), "kabary" (speeches), "Dihy" (dances) and "joro" (zebu sacrifices) are made.
The traditional wedding ceremony.

According to tradition, the "fanateram-bodiondry" marks the engagement ceremony. Three envelopes are then offered to the family of the girl: the first containing the various banknotes and coins in circulation, the second the "ala volo fotsy" especially for the father and finally the "tsaka rano". A dowry is offered to the future bride by his family (furniture, kitchenware ...) at the wedding.

Ceremonies and dates to remember
Malagasy New Year: varying according to the astrological calendar.

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