Established in 1996 within the XVIIIth-century Hénault townhouse, MEP is France’s first institution fully dedicated to contemporary photography. The setting – paved courtyard, period salons, grand staircase – instantly immerses visitors in an elegant, inspirational atmosphere. Inside, two floors of exhibition galleries offer 3 to 4 seasonal shows: well‑known masters (Cartier‑Bresson, Penn, Warhol) alongside emerging talents, particularly showcased in the Studio space.

Activities include guided tours, lectures, screenings, masterclasses and philosophical workshops, offering deep engagement with photographic art. Families and children are catered for with educational workshops and playful visits.

Atmosphere blends sobriety and warmth: visitors wander among artworks, browse rare books in the 24,000‑volume library, or relax with a drink in the café-bookshop. The staff is professional, multilingual, and inclusive: accessible to wheelchair users, hearing-impaired, with audio-description options depending on the program.

MEP caters to photography and art enthusiasts, students, researchers, families, and curious tourists. Its subtle charm appeals to both connoisseurs and general visitors seeking visual emotion. Fun fact: Jacques Chirac, then Mayor, played a key role in its opening in 1996.

Practical info: open Wednesday to Sunday (Wed/Fri 11 AM–8 PM, Thu 11 AM–10 PM, Sat/Sun 10 AM–8 PM), closed Mon, Tue, Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25, and during exhibition transitions. Box office closes 30 min before, galleries emptied 15 min prior. No luggage or pets, except assistance dogs. Accessible via Métro (Saint‑Paul L1, Pont‑Marie L7, Hôtel‑de‑Ville L11) and buses 69/76/79/96/N11/N16. Nearby parking includes reserved disabled spots.