Marvel at this surprisingly modern take on old-school Morocco
By far my favorite museum in Marrakech. This beloved photo museum is housed in a beautifully restored riad in the more authentic part of the Ocre City’s medina -no plastic souvenir vendors bothering you here, although there might be a chance encounter with a magic box maker or other cool artisan. Go along with it and take the time for a long stroll in the neighborhood before or after your visit.
La Maison de la Photographie displays over 800 photographs, letters, postcards journals and other documents. Mid 1800s, Western photographers discovered and enthusiastically started documenting Morocco’s cities, deserts, nomadic tribes and traditions. It was the start of the postcard era and the competition to capture thé best photograph was fierce. The resulting collection paints quite the picture of life in Morocco from the late 1800s until now. The images are often surprisingly bold and modern, full of cheeky details and mischief. My all-time favorite: the three girlfriends flashing their teeth and awesome garb at the camera, as if they were 2020 teens sharing their girl’s night on Instagram.
I can stare for hours at the huge photos of 1900s Djemaa el Fna, analyzing every Bedouin, goat, local girl or weirdly out of place looking foreigner walking its famous cobblestones. The museum’s terrace offers a breathtaking view over the city, with the majestic Atlas mountain range acting as backdrop. In short: a very lovely experience.
Maison de la Photographie for more info.
