The Photobook Museum

PhotoBookMuseum Cologne: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Complete Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Situated in the vibrant Ehrenfeld district of Cologne, Germany, The PhotoBookMuseum Cologne stands as the world’s first and only museum dedicated exclusively to the photobook medium. Since its founding in 2014, this pioneering institution has become a dynamic cultural hub, celebrating the art of photographic storytelling and serving as a global platform for photobook culture. Visitors to the museum can expect immersive exhibitions, hands-on programs, and direct engagement with one of photography’s most influential narrative forms. Whether you are an art lover, photography enthusiast, or a traveler exploring Cologne’s historical sites, The PhotoBookMuseum offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience in the heart of the city (thephotobookmuseum.com) (aperture.org) (phmuseum.com).

Introduction to The PhotoBookMuseum Cologne
History and Founding Vision
Leadership and Team
Landmark Exhibitions and Milestones
Museum Structure, Locations & Accessibility
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Highlights of the Museum Experience
Guided Tours, Workshops & Special Programs
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Visitor Tips
References and Official Links

History and Founding Vision

Established in 2014, The PhotoBookMuseum Cologne is the only museum worldwide devoted solely to the photobook as a medium. Founded by Markus Schaden, Frederic Lezmi, and Thekla Ehling, the museum was conceived to champion the photobook as a dynamic and democratic form of visual literature, blending photography, design, and narrative. From the outset, the founders envisioned a participatory museum that would break traditional boundaries and foster community engagement (thephotobookmuseum.com) (ninapoppe.com).

Leadership and Team

Markus Schaden, a renowned photobook curator and publisher, leads the museum’s vision alongside a dedicated team with expertise in photography, curation, and publishing. Their collective mission is to position the photobook at the center of contemporary photographic discourse, while maintaining a strong focus on accessibility and education (aperture.org).

Landmark Exhibitions and Milestones

Carlswerk Inaugural Exhibition (2014):
The museum’s debut exhibition transformed a 5,000-square-meter former factory into an interactive space featuring over 300 photobooks and 24 curated shows, including works by Oliver Sieber, Cristina de Middel, and Todd Hido. The event set the precedent for the museum’s large-scale, innovative approach (danielzakharov.de).

Studio Cologne (2024):
A street-level exhibition on Körnerstraße showcased historical portraits from Cologne’s photo studios (1861–1928), bringing local photographic heritage to life (wecombine.net).

Pop-Up and Mobile Installations:
The museum regularly stages pop-up shows in unconventional venues across Cologne and internationally, reinforcing its commitment to accessibility and community engagement (thephotobookmuseum.com).

Dummy Award and International Collaborations:
PBM supports emerging photographers through the annual Dummy Award and collaborates globally to foster photobook culture (phmuseum.com).

Museum Structure, Locations & Accessibility

THE BOX (Körnerstraße 6–8, Ehrenfeld):
A street-level, barrier-free showroom open to the public, offering curated exhibitions and a tactile, welcoming environment.

BUNKERGARTEN (Körnerstraße 101, Ehrenfeld):
An open-air experimental space for innovative art installations and community events.

Carlswerk Prototype:
A flexible, modular venue for ambitious exhibitions, workshops, and artist talks.

Accessibility:
All primary venues are wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate visitors of all abilities. Staff are trained to assist, and the museum welcomes a diverse audience.

Getting There:
Easily accessible via public transport (bus and tram stops at Körnerstraße). Limited street parking is available, but public transportation is recommended.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

THE BOX:

Wed–Fri: 16:00–20:00
Sat–Sun: 14:00–18:00

BUNKERGARTEN:

Wed–Thu: 16:00–20:00
Fri–Sat: 16:00–22:00
Sun: 14:00–20:00
Special holiday schedules may apply

Tickets & Admission:

Most exhibitions are free to enter, ensuring accessibility for all.
Special programs, guided tours, or workshops may require advance booking or a modest fee.
Tickets can be reserved via the official website.

Highlights of the Museum Experience

Innovative Exhibitions:
Explore historical and contemporary photobooks, thematic installations, and artist spotlights such as Dayanita Singh’s “Book Building” and Stephen Gill’s “Nobody’s Library.”
Hands-On Interaction:
Visitors are encouraged to browse, touch, and engage directly with photobooks—an experience rarely offered in other museums.
Participatory Programs:
The museum fosters creativity and democratization of the medium through collaborative projects, workshops, and open calls.

Guided Tours, Workshops & Special Programs

Expert-Led Tours:
Guided by Dr. Christoph Schaden, Markus Schaden, and guest curators.
Workshops:
Covering photobook creation, design, editing, and self-publishing.
Events and Lectures:
Regular lectures, artist talks, and photobook festivals bring together the international photobook community.

Details and scheduling are available on the museum’s events page.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Ehrenfeld District:
Renowned for street art, independent galleries, and vibrant cafes.
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom):
Iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, a short journey from the museum.
Museum Ludwig:
Home to world-class modern and contemporary art, including significant photography collections.
Rheinauhafen:
Picturesque waterfront ideal for walking and photography.

Combine your visit to The PhotoBookMuseum with these destinations for a rich cultural itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Most exhibitions are free; tickets for special programs can be reserved online or purchased on-site.

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: See above for detailed hours by location; always check the official website for updates.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all main venues offer barrier-free access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, regularly offered and highly recommended.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Policies vary by exhibition; please consult staff.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited street parking is available; public transport is advised.

Q: Is the museum suitable for children and families?
A: Yes, with family-friendly workshops and participatory programs.

Key Visitor Tips

Plan ahead: Check the official website for current exhibitions, opening hours, and ticket policies.
Participate: Join a guided tour or workshop to deepen your understanding.
Engage: Take advantage of the museum’s hands-on approach—browse, touch, and read the photobooks.
Explore the neighborhood: Ehrenfeld is one of Cologne’s most dynamic and artistic districts.
Stay updated: Follow The PhotoBookMuseum on social media for the latest news.

References and Official Links for Further Information

Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the captivating world of photobooks at the PhotoBookMuseum Cologne—a must-see destination for art, photography, and culture lovers.