The Photography Museum in Marrakesh offers a glimpse into Morocco’s history through 10,000 photographs from 1870 to 1960. Located in a restored riad near Jemaa el-Fna, it features permanent exhibits, rotating seasonal displays, and historical archives. Highlights include rare 19th-century images, the first color documentary on Berber tribes (1957), and breathtaking terrace views. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, admission costs 50 MAD for adults, and children under 16 enter free. Nearby attractions like the Medina markets, Bahia Palace, and Jardin Majorelle make it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
Key Highlights:
- Collection: 10,000 photos (1870–1960), rare glass plates, early films.
- Location: Restored riad near Jemaa el-Fna.
- Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM–7:00 PM.
- Admission: 50 MAD (adults), free for children under 16.
- Nearby: Medina markets, Bahia Palace, Jardin Majorelle.
Plan your visit to explore Morocco’s rich visual past while enjoying Marrakesh’s vibrant surroundings.
The Marrakech Museum of Photography and Visual Arts
Museum Collections
The museum’s collections offer a window into Morocco’s visual history, showcasing its evolution through portraits, landscapes, and architectural studies. These displays build on the story of the museum’s architectural restoration, adding depth to its narrative.
Main Exhibition Hall
The permanent exhibits feature historical photographs, thoughtfully arranged by region and theme. Visitors can view rare 19th-century images of bustling souks, unique glimpses of the Volubilis archaeological site, and candid portraits of daily life, such as scenes of children at water fountains from the 1890s [6]. These exhibits set the stage for the rotating seasonal displays.
Highlights from the permanent collection include:
- George Washington Wilson: 19th-century landscapes
- Marcelin Flandrin: Cultural documentation through photography
- Henri de La Martinière: Studies of Volubilis
- H. Regnault: A portrait series from 1870
- Adolf de Meyer: Early artistic photography
Seasonal Exhibits
Every six months, the museum introduces new temporary exhibits that complement the permanent collection. These rotating displays delve deeper into themes of cultural documentation. A recent standout was "Morocco at the Dawn of Modernity", which explored the nation’s transformation into the modern era [5].
Historical Archives
The museum’s archives house rare and valuable materials, such as 800 High Atlas glass plates, Daniel Chicault’s 1957 color documentary, and vintage Marrakech postcards [1][3]. The research center, located on the upper floor, supports historical studies and showcases Morocco’s visual heritage through multimedia elements, including early documentary films.
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Visit Planning
To make the most of your visit to the museum and dive into Morocco’s visual history, a bit of planning goes a long way.
Hours and Tickets
The Photography Museum is open every day from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM throughout the year [2][4]. Admission costs 50 MAD for adults, while children under 16 can enter for free [2].
| Visitor Category | Admission Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | 50 MAD |
| Children (under 16) | Free |
| Same-day re-entry | Same ticket valid [2] |
If you’re interested in exploring seasonal exhibits and archives, consider the multiple-visit ticket. Keep in mind that payments are cash-only in Moroccan Dirhams, though ATMs are conveniently located near main Medina landmarks.
Finding the Museum
The museum is housed in a renovated riad northeast of Jemaa el-Fna. You can use GPS to locate it or hire a local guide to help navigate the Medina’s complex streets. Be aware that while there are occasional directional signs, they may not always be reliable as some shop owners remove them [4].
Pro Tip: A smartphone with GPS is invaluable for finding your way. Alternatively, a local guide can make navigating the Medina much easier [4].
Peak Hours and Quiet Times
For a quieter experience, plan your visit on weekdays either before 11 AM or after 4 PM. The museum tends to be busiest during the spring and fall tourist seasons.
Ideal times to visit:
- Early morning (right after the 9:30 AM opening)
- Late afternoon (closer to closing time)
- Weekdays instead of weekends
Don’t miss the terrace, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes – many of which are featured in the museum’s 19th-century photograph collection [2]. If you encounter any accessibility challenges with the riad’s staircases, the staff can provide assistance if notified in advance.
Other Sites Near the Museum
The Photography Museum’s location in Marrakesh makes it a perfect starting point to discover nearby landmarks. Just a short walk away, you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic attractions. These spots delve into both the historical and modern aspects of Moroccan culture, complementing the museum’s focus on visual storytelling through architecture and craftsmanship.
Musée Yves Saint Laurent and Majorelle Gardens
About a 25-minute walk from the museum, the Musée Yves Saint Laurent and Jardin Majorelle offer a fascinating departure from traditional Moroccan architecture. The museum highlights rotating displays of Saint Laurent’s haute couture designs, accessories, and original sketches [8].
| Attraction | Adult Price (MAD) | Youth Price (MAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Musée YSL | 100 | 70 (12-30 years) |
| Jardin Majorelle | 80 | 40 (6-12 years) |
| Combined Ticket | 180 | Not available |
Jardin Majorelle, designed in the 1920s by French artist Jacques Majorelle, is known for its vibrant cobalt blue buildings and a botanical collection featuring over 300 plant species [8]. Drawing nearly 900,000 visitors annually, it’s Morocco’s most visited cultural site [7].
Tip: Opt for a combined ticket to save on entry fees. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the gardens before the crowds arrive.
Medina Markets and Landmarks
Since the Photography Museum is situated in the heart of the Medina, you’ll have easy access to both historic sites and bustling markets. The nearby souks are alive with artisans practicing age-old crafting techniques.
The Bahia Palace, a short walk away, showcases 19th-century architectural styles often reflected in the museum’s photographic collection [2]. From the museum’s terrace, you can even spot views that resemble scenes captured in its historic photos.
Where to Eat: Recharge after your visit at Nomad or Café des Épices. Both spots offer rooftop views of the Medina and serve Moroccan-inspired dishes with a modern twist [4].
Summary
The Photography Museum Marrakesh offers a glimpse into Morocco’s visual history with a collection of 10,000 photographs spanning from 1870 to 1960 [1][7]. Housed in a beautifully restored medina building, the museum itself adds to the story it tells. Nearby landmarks like the Bahia Palace and Medina markets further complement the narrative captured in the museum’s 19th-century images [2].
With thoughtfully curated displays and modern exhibition spaces, visitors can journey through time by exploring the photographs [2].
Visitor Information:
- Admission: 50 MAD [2]
The museum is part of Marrakesh’s must-visit cultural attractions, alongside spots like Jardin Majorelle and the bustling Medina markets. For those looking to dive deeper into the city’s artistic and cultural treasures, The Marrakesher blog provides English-language guides to both famous landmarks and hidden gems.
