Discovering Jewish Heritage in Madagascar: An Unlikely Journey

Welcome to the Kingdom of Marina - an ancient kingdom that ruled for centuries over the magical island now known to us as Madagascar, located in the western Indian Ocean.

We met Dr. Nedriana Ravalyona, a prince of the royal household, at... a cemetery. Draped in a special cotton robe, the prince declared, "This is the king's robe, passed down through the generations." The prince is in charge of a network of luxury hotels.

Three colors make up the precious robe: black, white, and red. "These are the colors of the House of Levi flag," the prince surprises us by saying.

The meeting at the cemetery was no coincidence. "Marina," the prince emphasized, "pays respect to the ancestors and the deceased, and it's important to pray at the graves of the forefathers."

Some of the gravestones are quite elaborate, made from a special granite. We stroll among impressive burial structures. My mission is clear: I'm searching for Jewish signs, something that might remind, even indirectly...

I was breathless, feeling as though I'd gone looking for something simple and found a kingdom of priests, a holy nation. I rubbed my tired eyes, scarcely believing, as holy letters danced before my eyes.

The Name of Hashem was inscribed on one of the gravestone stones itself. Watch the video and feel the excitement with me.