Lake Anosy
Lake Anosy (Lac Anosy) in the centre of Antananarivo was originally a swamp. In 1830 an artificial lake was created and an islet was constructed in the middle of the lake. A blacksmith workshop was established on the island, a location that would minimise the risk of fire caused by this occupation in areas where wood and thatched roofs were commonplace.
In later years the island was used to store explosive powder, which could also pose a risk of fire in the city where houses were mostly built by wood. Today, the island is a monument to commemorate victims of World War I, in which many Malagasy people died while fighting on the front line for France. Today, many poor and homeless people live in the park areas surrounding the lake. Although the lake is highly polluted, people can sometimes be seen washing and fishing. As there is much traffic around the lake it is best visited on public holidays or during non-rush hours.
A small fee to enter the island applies to all visitors, with a slightly higher price of 2,000 Ariary (2011) for foreign tourists.