On rue Larbi Ben M’hidi, MAMA occupies the former Galeries de France. Designed by Henri Petit as a department store, the building has taken on a new role as a museum devoted to modern and contemporary forms of artistic expression.
From department store to museum
MAMA was inaugurated on 1 December 2007 as part of Algiers’ year as Arab Capital of Culture. Its location in the heart of a shopping street offers another way of understanding the building: the transformation of a place of consumption into an exhibition space is part of its history. The building therefore deserves attention in its own right, rather than being seen merely as a backdrop to the artworks.
A broad artistic remit
The cultural map states that the museum’s remit covers the visual and graphic arts, photography, video, new media, industrial art and design. It also identifies the promotion of Algerian modern art since 1945 as part of its role. These fields define the institution’s purpose; they are not a list of the contents of a current exhibition.
When planning a visit, it is therefore useful to find out about the current programme: a photography exhibition calls for a different approach from a display of paintings, sculptures or installations.
Before you visit
The published address is 25, rue Larbi Ben M’hidi. Ask which exhibition is accessible, which spaces are open and whether any special arrangements are needed for a group. The directory contact details recorded here do not confirm that the museum opens daily or that a booking service is available.
Address and contact details
- City or locality
- Algiers
- Published address
- 25, rue Larbi Ben M’hidi, Alger
- Telephone
- +213 21 71 72 52
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Plan your visit
Ask for confirmation of the visitor reception location, opening hours, admission charges and accessible areas before travelling. For a group visit, research enquiry or specific need, check with your contact which department can help with your request.