Maison européenne de la photographie

About the museum

The Maison européenne de la photographie is linked to the association Paris Audiovisuel, founded in 1978 at the initiative of the City of Paris, which first set up the Espace photo. In February 1996, the institution moved into the Hôtel Hénault de Cantobre, a 1706 mansion in the Saint-Paul district. It has belonged to the City of Paris since 1914 and has been listed as a historic monument since 1928.

The architect Yves Lion restored the building and added a modern extension, creating about 3,000 m², of which 1,660 m² are galleries. Jean-Luc Monterosso directed the house from 1996 to 2018.

The MEP presents exhibitions by internationally renowned photographers and emerging artists, along with activities for families and schools. It holds more than 30,000 works of contemporary photography and video, and has a library of about 36,000 books on photography.

Highlights

• 1706 mansion, restored and extended by architect Yves Lion
• Photography exhibitions in the galleries, the Studio and the Petite Galerie
• Collection of more than 30,000 works of photography and video
• Specialist library of about 36,000 books
• Family tours and workshops

Founded

1996

Operated by

Association Paris Audiovisuel – Maison Européenne de la Photographie

Visitors per year

approx. 150,000

Admission & discounts

Tickets cost €14 (full price) and €9 (reduced) when bought online; proof must be shown at the entrance. Admission is also free for the press, members of ICOM, City of Paris employees, and recipients of the RSA, ASS and ASPA benefits. Tickets are neither refundable nor exchangeable.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

All public areas are served by a lift; accessible toilets on level -2. Two wheelchairs are lent at reception (in exchange for ID), and folding seats are available for self-service. Priority access for people with disabilities. A reserved parking space is in front of 2 rue de Jouy. Commented tours adapted for groups from the disability sector.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Stroller-friendly

Guided tours and dance tours for families, hands-on workshops and philosophy workshops for families. A booklet for ages 7–12 and a folding activity for ages 6–8 are available at reception. Holiday courses for ages 6–11 and 12–15. Strollers are allowed.

Getting there & parking

Amenities & dining

• Café: not available
• Restaurant: not available
• Museum shop
• Coat check
• Lockers

No café or restaurant; a rest area is located near the bookshop, accessible with an entry ticket. Cloakroom for bags up to A3 size; suitcases and large bags are not accepted. Specialist library.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent

The MEP offers private hire of its spaces; details are on the “Espaces et offre” page.

Plan your visit