Marubi National Museum of Photography

Marubi National Museum of Photography

Shkodër

70/10090 min

Located in Shkodër, Albania, the Marubi National Museum of Photography is dedicated to preserving the extensive photographic heritage initiated by Pietro Marubbi in 1856. This historic photo studio was managed by three generations of the Marubi family, whose work spans from 1858 to 1959, encompassing over 500,000 negatives in various formats and techniques. The museum is housed in a restored building designed by Albanian artist and architect Kole Idromeno, a former student of Pietro Marubbi. It presents a dialogue between tradition and modernity, showcasing both historical and contemporary photographic exhibitions. The collection includes portraits of notable figures such as Albanian patriots, Ottoman officials, and international consuls, as well as ethnographic, urban, and cultural scenes. The museum also features curated exhibitions from Albanian and international photographers, emphasizing the evolution of photography in the region and its cultural significance. It remains a vital institution for the conservation and promotion of Albanian photographic history and art.

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Astuce: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current exhibitions and opening hours. The best time to visit is during special exhibitions or cultural events to experience the diverse photographic collections fully. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers educational programs and may have discounts for students and groups.

Faits intéressants

  • The Marubi photographic archive contains around 500,000 negatives, making it one of the richest in the Balkans.
  • The museum building was designed by Kole Idromeno, an Albanian artist and architect who was a student of Pietro Marubbi.
  • The archive includes photographs of important historical figures such as Luigj Gurakuqi, Fishta, and Azem Galica.
  • Geg Marubi was the first Albanian photographer to use infrared photography techniques, learned in France.
  • The collection features diverse subjects including ethnography, urban landscapes, cultural monuments, and events from both World Wars.

Histoire

1856

The Marubi Photo-Studio was founded in 1856 by Pietro Marubbi, an Italian painter and photographer who settled in Shkodër.

Over three generations, the Marubi family amassed a vast photographic archive documenting Albanian society and history.

1970

In 1970, Geg Marubi donated the collection of approximately 150,000 negatives to the state, leading to the establishment of the photographic archive and later the museum.

The museum building, originally designed by Kole Idromeno, was restored to preserve its historic features while adapting it for modern exhibition purposes.

Throughout its history, the archive was used during the communist era, sometimes manipulated for propaganda.

Today, the museum serves to safeguard and celebrate authentic photographic heritage.

Guide du lieu

1
Historic Building by Kole IdromenoLate 19th century
Kole Idromeno

The museum is housed in a historic building designed by the renowned Albanian artist and architect Kole Idromeno, who was a student of Pietro Marubbi. The restoration preserved its original structural features while adapting it for modern use.

2
Marubi Photographic Archive1858–1959
Marubi family

The core of the museum's collection, this archive holds approximately 500,000 negatives spanning over a century, documenting Albanian life, culture, and history through the lens of three generations of Marubi photographers.

3
Temporary and Traveling Exhibitions

The museum hosts a variety of curated exhibitions featuring Albanian and international photographers, contemporary art, and thematic collections such as 'Dynasty Marubi: A Hundred Years of Albanian Studio Photography' and 'Manipulation'.

Contact

Téléphone: 068 907 1797

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