First Portuguese Settlement on South Coast

The establishment of Matatana marked the first Portuguese settlement on the south coast of Madagascar, located approximately 10 kilometers west of Fort Dauphin. This settlement was a direct result of European exploration and contact initiated by Portuguese sea captains in the early 16th century. The Portuguese, seeking new trade routes and resources, began to explore the Indian Ocean, leading to the sighting of Madagascar by Diogo Dias. The settlement at Matatana included the construction of a tower, a small village, and a stone column, which served as a symbol of Portuguese presence and authority in the region. This early settlement laid the groundwork for further Portuguese exploration and colonization efforts in Madagascar and the surrounding areas, influencing local trade dynamics and interactions with indigenous populations.