Located just a few kilometers from the center of Nosy Be, Marodoka, the island’s first Swahili village, is a site rich in history. Over the centuries, it welcomed merchants and travelers from India and Arabia, drawn by the culture and bustling trade of Nosy Be. Today, this village, a witness to that era, is part of a tourist circuit that highlights the traditions and cultural heritage of the island.
Nosy Be’s tourist circuit includes a visit to Marodoka. Visitors can explore an ylang-ylang distillery, a symbol of the island, before delving into the history of the village. Marodoka also serves as a starting point to visit the Lokobe Nature Reserve, renowned for its unique biodiversity. This combination of history and nature offers insight into the heritage of the Sakalava, the island’s original inhabitants.
Founded in the 15th century in what was then called Ambanoro, Marodoka became a thriving center of trade. Early Arab and Indian settlers established a marketplace dealing in gold, spices, tortoise shells, and, regrettably, slaves. The village’s remains, including colonial architecture with Indian influences and a ruined mosque, bear witness to the cultural diversity that once thrived here.
Marodoka is a must-see for anyone interested in understanding the history and traditions of Nosy Be. While time has taken its toll, the remnants of the village offer valuable insights into the island’s current identity. A visit to Marodoka is both a tribute to the generations who shaped this village and a call to preserve its heritage.
