MACAAL, the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden, is a contemporary art museum in Marrakech, set within the Al Maaden golf resort. Its exhibitions bring together work by artists from across Africa, with painting, sculpture, video and other media. Inside, careful staging and unexpected pieces reward a slow look; outside, the garden has sculptures and a quieter feel than the city centre. The rooftop cafe serves salads and sandwiches. Plan your transport before you go: the museum is reached by car through two security checks.
A museum for contemporary African art
The Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden, known as MACAAL, is an independent, non-profit museum in Marrakech. Its focus is contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, with exhibitions that bring established and emerging artists into view. The museum’s work includes painting, sculpture, video and digital art, alongside installations and other forms.
The exhibitions connect different artistic perspectives and explore themes in contemporary African art. Rather than a display of historical artefacts, MACAAL centres on present-day creative work. The selection includes artists from across the continent, with a strong African presence in the exhibitions.
Inside the museum and garden
The museum is compact, and visitors often spend about an hour exploring the exhibition. Look closely at the installation as well as the individual works: the curation and technical presentation are a notable part of the experience. Photography is not permitted inside, so plan to take in the work without photographing it.
Outside, the garden has sculptures set among its paths. The rooftop cafe is another place to pause, with salads, sandwiches and drinks. These spaces give a visit a quieter pace than Marrakech’s busy central sights.
Getting to MACAAL
MACAAL is inside the Al Maaden golf resort, so arrange a taxi or driver before setting out. Access involves passing through two security checks. The museum can arrange a taxi for the return journey. Its address is listed as Macaal, Marrakesh, Morocco.
FAQ
How long should I spend at MACAAL?
Allow about an hour to see the museum’s exhibitions. You can also spend time in the sculpture garden and rooftop cafe.
Can you take photos inside MACAAL?
No. Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
How do you get to MACAAL?
The museum is inside the Al Maaden golf resort and is reached by car, with two security checks on access. Arrange a taxi or driver; MACAAL can arrange a taxi for the return journey.
Is MACAAL open every day?
It is closed on Monday and Tuesday, and open Wednesday through Sunday.
