The Hungarian House of Photography occupies Mai Manó’s former home and studio on Nagymező Street in Budapest. Manó Mai was a royal court photographer, and the historic building is part of the visit: look for its Art Nouveau details, stained glass, painted murals and wooden staircase. Exhibitions bring together Hungarian and international photography across different periods and styles. You can also browse the photo-book shop or visit the Pécsi József Library of Photography on the third floor for books and reference material on the medium.
A house built around photography
The Hungarian House of Photography is at Nagymező utca 20, near Andrássy Avenue. The building was once the home and workplace of Manó Mai, a royal court photographer in the Austro-Hungarian period. Its connection to him gives the museum a personal history: photography was made here before the rooms became exhibition spaces.
The house is also notable for its architecture. Its exterior is clad in ceramics, while the interior has Art Nouveau decoration, stained-glass windows, painted murals and a wooden staircase. Take a moment to look around the building between galleries. The preserved studio is a particular point of interest, with daylight used for photography there.
Exhibitions, books and research
Exhibitions present local and international photography, from historical work to contemporary practice. The programme changes, and past shows have included photographers such as Ruth Orkin and Roger Ballen, as well as projects built around found photography. Check the current programme before your visit if you have a particular artist or style in mind.
Photography books are part of the experience, too. The on-site bookshop has a collection to browse, and the Pécsi József Library of Photography is on the third floor. Its holdings include photo albums, magazines, reference books and bibliographies, with material on Hungarian photographers and their international contemporaries. The library is a useful stop for anyone who wants to spend longer with the subject beyond the temporary exhibitions.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Mai Manó House?
It is at Nagymező utca 20 in Budapest, near Andrássy Avenue.
What can you see at the Hungarian House of Photography?
The house presents changing photography exhibitions, alongside historic interiors associated with Manó Mai. It also has a photo-book shop and the Pécsi József Library of Photography.
Is Mai Manó House open on Mondays?
No. It is closed on Mondays.
Can you buy tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended.
