MUMA - MAYOTTE MUSEUM

The former Dzaoudzi Barracks (a stone's throw from the barge), rehabilitated as the "MuMA" museum (Musée de Mayotte), opened its doors in September 2015 on the occasion of the European Heritage Days. Constantly evolving, the MuMA invites you to discover the island's riches through exhibitions on emblematic themes, covering the natural and cultural environment as well as tangible and intangible heritage. MuMA offers one or two new prefiguration exhibitions each year, to enrich the collections of this young museum enabling the public to discover all the richness of Mayotte's history and culture. Since December 20, 2018, the MuMA has been designated a "Musée de France", joining the large family of museums whose permanent collections are made up of items whose conservation and presentation are in the public interest and are organized for the public's knowledge, education and enjoyment (Museum Act of January 4, 2002). In a warm and welcoming setting, you'll discover the riches of the lagoon through films and unusual objects, such as the surprising sperm whale skeleton, intangible practices such as the shioni (the place of books or Koranic school), as well as numerous craft skills... You'll also learn about the ritual world of Mayotte and how it has been shaped by economic and cultural exchanges, both past and present. A must-see place to immerse yourself in the history of Mayotte, its traditions and the wonders of its natural heritage. In 2020, MuMa began major restoration work on the building, forcing it to close to the public. According to the relevant authorities, it should reopen in 2025. In the meantime, "MuMa Saturdays" will continue to be held on the last Saturday of every month, with events and lectures related to the museum's heritage. The museum also goes beyond its walls for temporary events, workshops for school classes and public events on special days (Heritage Days, National Architecture Day, etc.), and works closely with the Pôle Culturel de Chirongui. Last but not least, in addition to the major structural works, a major digitization of the museum's contents is currently underway, which will enable visitors to continue enjoying the exhibitions at home from the comfort of their own computer. Take a look at the museum's Facebook page to see what's going on.