Forbes Museum | Tangier

The Forbes Museum of Tangier, established by American publishing magnate Malcolm Forbes, was a unique museum that became an iconic cultural landmark in Tangier, Morocco. The museum was located in the Palais Mendoub (also known as Dar al-Mandub) in the Marshan district, offering stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar. Here is an in-depth exploration of the museum's history, collection, and its legacy.

Historical Background

In 1970, Malcolm Forbes purchased the Palais Mendoub, a grand estate originally built in 1929 by Moroccan businessman Mohammed Tazi. Forbes, known for his wealth and passion for military history, transformed the estate into a museum. His vision was to create a space that would not only showcase his interests but also help preserve significant moments from military history.

The museum officially opened in the early 1970s and became a key cultural site in Tangier, attracting visitors from around the world. It remained open until 1990, when Malcolm Forbes passed away. After his death, the museum ceased its operations, and the Moroccan government took control of the estate, converting it into an official VIP residence for dignitaries connected to the Royal Palace of Morocco.

Museum Collection and Exhibits

The Forbes Museum of Tangier was renowned for its extensive collection of military miniatures and historical artifacts. At its peak, the museum housed over 115,000 lead soldier figurines, making it one of the most impressive private collections of military miniatures in the world.

1. Lead Soldier Figurines

Historical Battle Depictions: The collection featured meticulously crafted figurines depicting famous historical battles. These included iconic conflicts such as:

The Battle of Waterloo (1815) – One of the most famous battles in European history, where Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated.

The Battle of Dien Bien Phu (1954) – A pivotal battle during the First Indochina War between the French and the Viet Minh.

Reenactments: The museum’s exhibits were enhanced with lighting, sound effects, and immersive settings, creating realistic reenactments of these historical moments. The combination of visual effects and detailed models offered visitors an opportunity to experience these battles in a truly interactive manner.

2. Battle of the Three Kings Garden

On the grounds of the palace, Forbes commissioned the creation of a Battle of the Three Kings Garden. This outdoor installation featured nearly 600 statues of soldiers, which symbolized the historical Battle of the Three Kings, fought in 1578. This battle is significant in Moroccan history, where King Abu Marwan Abd al-Malik of Morocco defeated the forces of the Portuguese King Sebastian.

The garden reflected Forbes' personal dedication to preserving key moments in Moroccan and world history through sculpture and monumentation.

Architecture and Grounds

The Palais Mendoub was a blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and European design influences, making it a distinctive landmark in Tangier. The palace and its grounds were designed with both aesthetic appeal and function in mind, providing an elegant setting for the display of historical artifacts.

Expansive Gardens: The palace grounds stretched over 10 acres (40,000 m²), including well-maintained gardens that added a tranquil atmosphere to the estate.

Terraces and Panoramic Views: The estate’s location on a hill in the Marshan district allowed for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Strait of Gibraltar and the city of Tangier. The terraces provided an excellent vantage point for enjoying these views.

Traditional Moroccan Features: The architecture featured intricate tilework, courtyards with fountains, and expansive courtyards, all hallmarks of Moroccan style. The palace combined these traditional elements with European features such as grand staircases and vaulted ceilings.

The Post-Forbes Era

After Malcolm Forbes' death in 1990, the museum closed, and the Moroccan government acquired the property. Today, the palace serves as a residence for VIPs, particularly those visiting Moroccan Royalty. As a result, the palace is no longer open to the public, and access is restricted.

However, the Forbes Museum of Tangier remains a part of Tangier's cultural history. The palace itself, while no longer a museum, still attracts attention for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

Location and Visiting

Address: Rue Mohammed Tazi, Marshan, Tangier, Morocco

Coordinates: 35°47′28.99″N 5°49′29.49″W

The Forbes Museum was situated in a prime location, easily accessible from various points in the city. While visitors can no longer enter the palace or explore the grounds, the exterior and the surrounding Marshan neighborhood offer opportunities for appreciating its beauty.

Legacy of the Forbes Museum

The Forbes Museum of Tangier remains a significant part of both Tangier’s and Morocco’s cultural heritage. While the museum is no longer in operation, its impact can still be felt through various historical accounts, photographs, and auction catalogs of the artifacts that once resided there. The museum’s collection of miniatures and its architectural beauty continue to fascinate those interested in history, military collections, and the intersection of Moroccan and international culture.

Despite no longer being open to the public, the Forbes Museum of Tangier remains a key chapter in the history of cultural exchange in Morocco. The transformation of the palace into a dignitary residence speaks to the ongoing importance of this property in Moroccan diplomacy.