Vohemar

Vohemar, also known as Iharana, lies on Madagascar's northeastern coast. Its sheltered harbour and coastal settlements connected the island to the trading world of the Indian Ocean. Nearby graves preserve evidence of a community known as the Rasikajy, whose burial practices show Islamic influence and whose goods came from both Madagascar and distant shores.

Archaeologists have identified a substantial ancient port settlement dating to the fourteenth century and a cemetery used over many successive centuries. Graves contained Chinese ceramics, glass beads, gold and silver ornaments, and locally made stone vessels. These objects reveal the breadth of Vohemar's connections with eastern Africa, southern Asia and the wider ocean, as well as the wealth and craft traditions of the people buried there.