Moroni

Moroni, Grande Comore, Comoros

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Moroni is the capital and largest city of the Union of the Comoros, located on the western coast of Grande Comore (Ngazidja) island in the Indian Ocean, where volcanic Mount Karthala rises behind the town.

Founded around the 10th century as a sultanate linked to Swahili trading cities, it became the national capital in 1975 after having replaced Dzaoudzi when Comoros gained independence. The city mixes Arab, African, and French influences in its culture, architecture, and language, with a lively port economy focused on spices, coffee, cocoa, and trade, plus a small but vibrant beach at Itsandra and markets such as Volo Volo that showcase local crafts and produce.

Moroni remains one of the world’s quieter and less developed capitals, retaining a traditional, low‑rise feel, an Islamic majority, and a warm, rainy tropical climate that supports rich coastal vegetation and occasional threats from its nearby active volcano.