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Sacred Lake of Anivorano (fady crocodiles)
Anivorano-Nord, between Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) & Ambilobe, Diana Region, N Madagascar
Madagascar
Active (zebu-sacrifice ceremonies)
Single grove
- Location
- Anivorano-Nord, between Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) & Ambilobe, Diana Region, N Madagascar
- Coordinates
- ~12.75°S 49.25°E
- Elevation
- ~420 m (volcanic crater)
- Size
- Crater lake ~1.56 km²
- Age / Founded
- Ancient (legend of cursed village)
- Status
- Active (zebu-sacrifice ceremonies)
- Deity & Religion
- Sacred Nile crocodiles (transformed ancestors/villagers); fady; local traditional religion
- Community & Guardians
- Descendants of the 'generous woman' (custodians)
- Vernacular name
- Lac sacré (fady crocodile lake)
- Record type
- Single grove
Cultural practices & uses
Crocodiles fady (not hunted/disturbed); offerings & zebu sacrifices; swimming/spitting/Tuesday-visits taboo
Plant species
Crater-lake fringe vegetation
Biome & fauna
Volcanic crater lake; sacred Crocodylus niloticus (some 'wear jewelry')
Threats & protection
Taboo-protected sacred natural site
Source
Prime Magazine — Sacred Lake of Anivorano; MadaMagazine 'The crocodiles' lake'