Le Louxor

Le Louxor Paris Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Le Louxor – Palais du Cinéma, nestled in Paris’s vibrant 10th arrondissement, is a landmark that fuses cinematic tradition, architectural splendor, and cultural vitality. Opened in 1921, it is one of France’s rare surviving examples of neo-Egyptian architecture, adorned with motifs inspired by ancient Egypt. Its original design stemmed from the Egyptomania that gripped Europe after the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, making Le Louxor a unique and striking presence in the Parisian urban landscape.

More than a cinema, Le Louxor is a living witness to nearly a century of Parisian history, from its glamorous beginnings to decline and abandonment, and finally, a celebrated restoration in 2013. Today, it offers both art-house and international film programming as well as guided tours, special festivals, and community events. Visitors can also enjoy its meticulously restored mosaics, evocative Egyptian-themed interiors, and a panoramic terrace overlooking Sacré-Cœur.

Conveniently located at 170 Boulevard de Magenta, opposite Barbès–Rochechouart metro station, Le Louxor is easily accessible and welcomes cinephiles, architecture enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike. Whether you are passionate about cinema, history, or simply wish to explore a vibrant Parisian neighborhood, Le Louxor promises an immersive cultural experience.

For updated visitor information on opening hours, ticketing, programming, and upcoming events, consult the official Le Louxor website, and for further insights see Les Amis du Louxor, Atlas Obscura, and Sortir à Paris.

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Architectural and Artistic Significance
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
References

History and Cultural Significance

Origins and Construction (1921)

Le Louxor was constructed in 1921, designed by architect Henri-André Zipcy for entrepreneur Henry Silberberg. Built on the former site of a department store, it opened with grand fanfare as one of Paris’s most opulent cinemas, seating nearly 1,200 people. Its façade and interior were inspired by the Egyptomania of the time, with its name referencing the ancient city of Luxor.

Architectural Significance

The cinema’s façade is a masterpiece of neo-Egyptian architecture, featuring polychrome mosaics, lotus-flower capitals, and intricate friezes. These elements were produced by the renowned Gentil & Bourdet ceramics workshops and include motifs like scarabs, cobras, and the winged solar disk, all evoking the mystique of ancient Egypt (Les Amis du Louxor).

Cinematic Role and Transformations

Throughout the 1920s to 1950s, Le Louxor was a leading venue for film premieres and popular entertainment, adopting technical innovations such as sound and CinemaScope. However, by the 1950s, changing entertainment habits and urban demographics led to declining attendance. Interior renovations in 1954 altered its original décor, and after diverse programming through the 1960s and 1970s, the cinema closed in 1983.

Restoration and Revival

After years of neglect, community advocacy led to the City of Paris acquiring the building in 2003. Architect Philippe Pumain oversaw an extensive restoration from 2008 to 2013, meticulously reviving the original neo-Egyptian style while modernizing the facilities. The cinema reopened in 2013 with three screening rooms, an exhibition space, and a rooftop café-bar, establishing itself as a major cultural hub (Cinema Louxor).

Contemporary Role

Today, Le Louxor is celebrated for its architectural uniqueness and as a center for art-house and international cinema, retrospectives, festivals, and community engagement. It is a symbol of successful urban cultural preservation in a diverse and dynamic Parisian neighborhood.

Architectural and Artistic Significance

Exterior Neo-Egyptian Features

Le Louxor’s exterior stands out with its bold Egyptian Revival motifs, including glazed ceramic tiles, stylized lotus columns, and papyrus friezes. The corner entrance is flanked by columns reminiscent of ancient temples, while the vibrant colors and geometric patterns have been preserved through expert restoration (Les Amis du Louxor).

Interior Design and Artistic Restoration

Inside, visitors are immersed in a fantasy of ancient Egypt. The main auditorium—the Youssef Chahine room—features hieroglyphic motifs, painted silhouettes, and star-studded ceilings. Restoration efforts relied on archival research and traditional artisan techniques to faithfully recreate the original décor, blending historical accuracy with modern comfort (Sortir à Paris).

Symbolism and Egyptomania

Le Louxor epitomizes the Egyptomania that swept France in the early 20th century, drawing on both authentic Egyptian motifs and their reinterpretation through modern design. This style was intended to transport audiences into an exotic world, distinguishing Le Louxor from other Parisian cinemas (Sortir à Paris).

Integration with Urban Paris

Situated at the Barbès intersection, Le Louxor is both a neighborhood landmark and a symbol of cultural diversity and resilience. Its restoration is a victory for heritage preservation in a historically working-class district (Les Amis du Louxor).

Visitor Experience Highlights

Façade Ceramics: The polychrome ceramics protect and embellish the building.
Hieroglyphic Friezes and Starry Ceilings: These interior features evoke the ancient Egyptian cosmos and mythology.
Rooftop Bar and Terrace: Offers panoramic views of Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, providing a memorable setting before or after screenings (Cinema Louxor).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Showtimes

Monday to Friday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Hours may vary during holidays and special events. For the latest schedule, visit the official website or Allociné.

Ticket Prices and How to Purchase

Standard adult: €10.50
Reduced (students, seniors, job seekers): €8.50
Children under 14: €6.50
Morning screenings: €7.00
Discounts: Loyalty cards and multi-ticket packages available.

Tickets can be purchased online at the official website or at the box office. Advance booking is recommended for popular films and events.

Accessibility

Le Louxor is fully accessible, with step-free entrances, elevators, wheelchair spaces, and adapted restrooms. Select screenings provide French subtitles for the hearing impaired and audio description. Staff assistance is available upon request.

Directions and Facilities

Location: 170 Boulevard de Magenta, 75010 Paris
Metro: Barbès–Rochechouart (Lines 2 & 4)
Bus: Lines 31, 54, 56, 85, 91
Parking: Limited street parking; several paid garages nearby.
View on Google Maps

Facilities include three auditoriums, rooftop bar, ground-floor café, Wi-Fi, and a concessions stand. Outside food and drink are not permitted in screening rooms.

Programming and Special Events

Le Louxor hosts a diverse program:

First-run French and international films
Retrospectives, thematic cycles, and cine-clubs
Family matinees and educational workshops
Festivals and special events, often with guest speakers or live music
Most films are shown in their original language with French subtitles

For current programming, visit the official website or Allociné.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Le Louxor is close to Montmartre, Canal Saint-Martin, and the bustling Marché Barbès. The area offers numerous cafés, boutiques, and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for pairing your cinema visit with neighborhood exploration. The cinema’s façade and terrace are popular photography spots.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Le Louxor’s opening hours?
A: Generally, from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM (weekends from 11:00 AM). Always check the website for updates.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official website or at the box office.

Q: Is Le Louxor wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with full accessibility features.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, focusing on history and architecture. Check the website for the schedule.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted in public areas unless otherwise indicated.

Q: What COVID-19 measures are in place?
A: As of June 2025, hand sanitizers and enhanced cleaning are in use; masks are recommended during outbreaks.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Le Louxor – Palais du Cinéma is a vibrant testament to Paris’s dedication to preserving its architectural and cultural heritage. Its neo-Egyptian style, carefully restored interiors, and dynamic programming make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in cinema, history, or the arts. With accessible facilities, regular guided tours, and a calendar rich in festivals and retrospectives, Le Louxor invites visitors to experience the “temple to the seventh art” in all its splendor.

For the most up-to-date information on hours, tickets, and events, consult the official website and follow Le Louxor on social media. Enhance your experience by exploring nearby Parisian attractions and consider subscribing to newsletters or downloading the Audiala app for personalized recommendations.