It is the first piece of real estate owned by the United States government abroad.
The property was a gift from Sultan Moulay Suliman to the United States in 1821.
It served as the American Legation for 140 years, the longest serving diplomatic mission in U.S. history.
The museum houses a rare 19th-century portrait of the Sultan of Morocco by James McBey.
During World War II, the building served as a hub for American intelligence activities in North Africa.
The museum contains a dedicated Wing for Moroccan-American historical archives.
The structure displays an authentic Moorish-style courtyard with an integrated fountain.
It is the only American National Historic Landmark located outside the borders of the United States.
The Tangier American Legation Museum is the only National Historic Landmark of the United States located on foreign soil. Housed in a former diplomatic mission established in 1821, the site commemorates the historic diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Morocco. The museum complex consists of five interconnected buildings, reflecting diverse architectural influences including traditional Moroccan courtyards and European design. It contains an extensive collection of historical documents, maps, and diplomatic artifacts tracing the early years of American-Moroccan ties. The gallery features a significant collection of orientalist art, including a room dedicated to the works of Marguerite McBey. The site also serves as a cultural center, providing language classes and housing an extensive research library on North African studies. The building retains original features from its time as a legation, consulate, and embassy. It is situated within the historic Medina of Tangier. The museum is a registered historical property under both U.S. and Moroccan law.
The central Moroccan courtyard with its ornate tile work and traditional fountain.
Use the provided museum map to navigate the interconnected buildings as the floor plan is non-linear.
Visit the research library upstairs if you are interested in deep-dive historical records.
Engage with the staff, who are often highly knowledgeable about Tangier's diplomatic history.
Do not attempt to arrive by car as the surrounding Medina streets are narrow, pedestrian-only alleys.
Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Dress modestly as a sign of respect for the local neighborhood; quiet behavior is expected in the gallery spaces.
