The photography museum of Madagascar: The country's history through the eyes of its people

Since its inception, the Photography Museum has captivated Facebook users with rare black-and-white photographs of Madagascar taken between the 1860s and 1960s. Each post delights subscribers with intriguing anecdotes and new insights into the country’s history. Since February 2018, these photos can also be admired in a physical museum located in the Haute Ville of Antananarivo.

From virtual museum to physical space

Initially launched as a virtual museum in 2013, the Photography Museum was created to showcase Madagascar’s rich photographic heritage. This initiative was spearheaded by Helihanta Rajaonarison, a history professor, and Cédric Donck, a Belgian philanthropist born in Madagascar. Over 3,000 photographs, ranging from the royal era to the period of independence, were made available to the public through a Facebook page and website.

The founders envisioned a physical space where visitors could view the photographs in person. Thanks to the dedication of Tamara Teissedre-Philip, a key project member and the permanent representative of the Île-de-France region in Madagascar, this vision became a reality in 2018.

Rare and recent photographs by the people

The museum features rare and invaluable images sourced from the old trunks of Malagasy families and French families who lived in Madagascar. The royal-era photographs are either owned by descendants of 19th-century dignitaries or preserved in Madagascar’s National Archives. 

Colonial-era photographs come from the archives of renowned Malagasy photographers, collectors of various nationalities, and individuals like Michel Pain. Some of these photos are also sourced from the National Archives. Contributions from the Department of History at the University of Antananarivo, various associations, and private individuals have enriched the museum’s collection. 

Given the priceless nature of these photos, they have been digitized for public viewing. Alongside black-and-white images, the museum’s collection includes color photographs offering glimpses into the city of Antananarivo and everyday life in the past.  

A historical venue for learning and research

Housed in the former residence of Antananarivo’s mayors, the museum officially opened its doors on February 15, 2018. The building itself is historic, exemplifying mid-19th-century Tananarivian architecture. 

The museum’s exhibits cater to a wide audience, including students and researchers who wish to use the photographic archives for academic purposes. Four projection rooms showcase old photographs as themed films available in Malagasy, French, and English. Two films delve into the history of photography in Madagascar, while the other two highlight Madagascar’s major cities.

A large exhibition hall presents the architectural evolution of Antananarivo’s Haute Ville through around 20 photographs. The museum’s garden serves as an expressive space for amateur and contemporary photographers. Exhibits and films are updated every six months to maintain a fresh perspective.

Practical Information

The Photography Museum of Madagascar is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM, and is closed on Mondays.  

Follow the museum on Facebook: musée de la photographie