Cinémathèque Française: A Temple to Cinema
Explore the magic of cinema at the Cinémathèque Française in Paris, home to an unparalleled collection of film history and daily screenings.
The Cinémathèque Française, founded in 1936, stands as a monument to the art of filmmaking. Located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, in a building designed by Frank Gehry, the Cinémathèque is dedicated to preserving, restoring, and exhibiting films and film-related artifacts. The Cinémathèque's collection includes over 40,000 films, along with countless photographs, scripts, posters, and costumes, documenting the history and development of cinema. The Musée Méliès, within the Cinémathèque, showcases over 300 machines, costumes, posters, drawings and models related to the pioneering filmmaker Georges Méliès. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits, attend daily screenings of classic and contemporary films from around the world, and participate in workshops and lectures. The Cinémathèque also houses a library with a vast collection of books, periodicals, and documents related to film. It's a place for film screenings and exhibitions and a center for research and education in film art and history. The Cinémathèque Française is more than just a museum; it's a celebration of cinema. Whether you're a casual moviegoer or a serious film scholar, you'll find something to inspire and delight you in this temple to the seventh art.
Local tips
- Check the Cinémathèque's website for the daily screening schedule and special events.
- Visit the Musée Méliès to discover the world of the pioneering filmmaker Georges Méliès.
- Take advantage of the Cinémathèque's workshops and lectures to deepen your understanding of film.
- The Cinémathèque is closed on Tuesdays.
A brief summary to Cinémathèque Française
- 51 Rue de Bercy, Paris, 75012, FR
- +33171193333
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Cinémathèque Française is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro lines 6 or 14 to the 'Bercy' station. The single ticket for public transport is called T+ and costs €2.50. With the purchase of a single ticket, you can travel on the metro and RER trains within zone 1.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Paris. A taxi ride to the Cinémathèque from a central location like the Gare de Lyon will cost approximately €11, depending on traffic. The minimum fare for a ride is €8. It is cheaper to take a hailed taxi in the street than to book it in advance.
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Walking
If you are near the Bibliothèque Nationale de France François-Mitterrand, you can walk to the Cinémathèque Française. Cross the Seine via the Passerelle Simone-de-Beauvoir. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.
