Filmoteka Narodowa – Instytut Audiowizualny

Filmoteka Narodowa Instytut Audiowizualny (FINA) Warsaw: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Filmoteka Narodowa – Instytut Audiowizualny (FINA), located in Warsaw’s vibrant Mokotów district, is Poland’s leading institution for preserving, restoring, and promoting the nation’s rich audiovisual heritage. Established in 1955 as the National Film Archive, FINA has transformed from a traditional film archive into a dynamic cultural hub, merging with the National Audiovisual Institute in 2017 to embrace both analog and digital media. This guide provides all essential information for visitors—whether film enthusiasts, researchers, or tourists—covering visiting hours, ticketing, facilities, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit.

For up-to-date details, visit the FINA official website and explore their digital repository and Kino Iluzjon program.

Introduction
About FINA: Mission and History
Location and How to Get There
Visiting Hours
Ticket Information
Facilities and Accessibility
What to Experience at FINA
Programming and Special Events
Archival Access and Research
Digital Resources
Practical Tips for Visitors
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Safety and Guidelines
Recommendations for a Memorable Visit
Contact and Further Information
References and Further Reading

About FINA: Mission and History

Evolution and Cultural Role

Founded in 1955 as the National Film Archive, FINA was established to safeguard Polish cinematic heritage in the wake of World War II. Over the decades, it has expanded its mission to include restoration, research, and public programming. The 2017 merger with the National Audiovisual Institute broadened its focus to encompass digital media, making FINA a cutting-edge center for audiovisual culture. Today, FINA acts as a gateway to Poland’s cinematic past and present, bridging historical preservation with contemporary media engagement (FINA official site).

Contribution to Polish and International Cinema

FINA’s collections include over 120,000 film reels, rare silent films, iconic works by directors like Andrzej Wajda and Krzysztof Kieślowski, as well as documentaries, newsreels, and multimedia artifacts. Through collaborations with international festivals and global archives, FINA plays a vital role in promoting Polish cinema worldwide (go2warsaw.pl).

Location and How to Get There

FINA’s main headquarters is at ul. Wałbrzyska 3/5, 02-739 Warszawa, with the public cinema venue Kino Iluzjon at ul. Ludwika Narbutta 50A, 02-541 Warszawa. Both sites are easily accessible via Warsaw’s efficient public transport system—metro, tram, and bus lines connect directly to Mokotów. Street parking is available but limited; public transit is recommended for convenience (Mapcarta).

Nearby, you’ll find a range of hotels (e.g., Pokoje Sonaty, SuperApart Wilanowska, UrbanNest), cafes, restaurants, and other cultural sites like the Służew New Cemetery and Museum of the Polish Peasant Movement (Hikersbay).

Visiting Hours

Kino Iluzjon Cinema:
Open daily from 14:30 to 20:30, or one hour before the day’s first screening.
Library and Reading Rooms:
- Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 9:00 – 15:30
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 19:00
- Thursday: 9:00 – 13:00

Hours may vary during holidays or special events. Always confirm via the official FINA website and Kino Iluzjon program.

Ticket Information

Cinema Screenings:
Tickets can be purchased online via the Kino Iluzjon ticket portal or at the box office.
Outdoor Cinema Events:
Free admission for summer outdoor screenings, typically Fridays at 22:00.
Special Events & Exhibitions:
Ticketing may vary; check event details on the official site.

Discounts are available for students, seniors, and children. Advance booking is advised for popular events.

Facilities and Accessibility

Onsite Amenities

Kino Iluzjon:
Two modern screening rooms, state-of-the-art projection, and sound systems
Café & Bookstore:
Light refreshments, film literature, posters, and memorabilia
Library and Reading Rooms:
Over 26,000 film-related volumes and 1,000+ periodicals
Fototeka Digital Archive:
Access to over 130,000 digitized photographs of Polish cinema
Cloakroom and Free Wi-Fi:
Available for visitors’ convenience

Accessibility

Both FINA headquarters and Kino Iluzjon are wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms. Staff are trained to assist visitors with special needs—advance notice is appreciated for tailored assistance.

What to Experience at FINA

Film Screenings and Festivals

Kino Iluzjon offers a rich program of Polish and international classics, silent films with live music, retrospectives, and festivals. Annual highlights include thematic events and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.

Exhibitions and Education

Regular exhibitions explore Polish cinema history, film technology, and prominent filmmakers. Workshops and educational activities cater to all ages, covering topics from animation to film restoration.

Archives and Research

Researchers can arrange access to FINA’s extensive digital and physical archives, including rare films, posters, and scripts. Selected materials are available online through the FINA Digital Repository and the Szukaj w Archiwach portal.

Programming and Special Events

FINA’s calendar features classic and contemporary films, curated cycles, documentaries, workshops, lectures, and meetings with filmmakers. Collaborations with festivals and cultural institutes enrich the programming. Group and educational tours can be arranged by prior booking.

Archival Access and Research

Holding one of Europe’s largest film collections, FINA provides access to over 100,000 films, shorts, documentaries, and photographic materials. Researchers should arrange visits in advance via the contact page.

Digital Resources

Explore FINA’s extensive digital archives and Fototeka online at fototeka.fn.org.pl. Follow FINA on social media and download the Audiala app for curated content and updates.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Plan ahead: Check for updated schedules, ticket availability, and special events online.
Language: Most content is in Polish; some events offer English materials or subtitles.
Photography: Permitted in exhibitions and public areas, but not during screenings.
Weather: Bring rain gear and mosquito repellent for outdoor events.
Food and Drink: Café available onsite; many dining options in Mokotów.
Accessibility: Notify staff in advance for assistance if needed.

Nearby Attractions

Mokotów is a lively district offering parks, historical sites, shops, and restaurants. Popular nearby attractions include the Służew New Cemetery and the Museum of the Polish Peasant Movement, making FINA an excellent base for a day of cultural exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Kino Iluzjon is open daily, library and reading rooms have varied weekday hours. Always confirm via the official website.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online or at the box office; some outdoor events are free.

Q: Is FINA wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all main venues are fully accessible.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, by prior appointment. Workshops and educational activities are regularly offered.

Q: Can I access the archives for research?
A: Yes, but appointments are required. Some materials may have access restrictions.

Safety and Guidelines

Visitors should respect archival materials and follow staff instructions. Silence mobile phones during screenings. Photography is only allowed where permitted. As of July 2025, COVID-19 guidelines may include mask-wearing and social distancing—check the FINA website for the latest updates.

Recommendations for a Memorable Visit

Consult the Kino Iluzjon program and book tickets in advance.
Explore the digital repository for rare films and archival gems.
Attend special events such as silent film screenings with live music.
Visit nearby cultural sites for a full day’s itinerary.
Purchase unique souvenirs from the bookstore.

Contact and Further Information

Summary

Filmoteka Narodowa – Instytut Audiowizualny (FINA) is a cornerstone of Poland’s cultural scene and a must-visit for anyone interested in cinema, history, or Warsaw’s vibrant arts landscape. With its impressive collections, accessible facilities, and diverse programming, FINA offers a unique insight into Polish and international film heritage. Plan your visit today for an enriching experience at one of Warsaw’s most significant historical sites.