Swiss Film Archive

Introduction: The Cinémathèque suisse—A Jewel of Swiss and Global Film Heritage

In the heart of Lausanne, Switzerland, the Swiss Film Archive (Cinémathèque suisse) stands as a guardian of cinematic heritage and a vibrant center for film culture. Established in 1948 by visionary cinephiles determined to protect fragile post-war film reels, the Archive has grown into one of the world’s premier film institutions. Housing over 85,000 film titles, millions of photographs, and hundreds of thousands of posters, it serves as a sanctuary for both Swiss and international cinema. The beautifully restored Cinéma Capitole—Lausanne’s largest and most historic cinema—hosts screenings, festivals, and special events, making the Cinémathèque suisse an essential destination for film lovers, researchers, and culture seekers alike (Cinémathèque suisse, lausannemusees.ch, swissinfo.ch).

This detailed guide presents everything you need to plan your visit: opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, highlights of the Archive’s collections and events, and tips for exploring Lausanne’s historical sites nearby.

The Swiss Film Archive: Origins and International Reputation

Foundation and Mission

Founded in 1948 amidst a post-war drive to save endangered film materials, the Cinémathèque suisse was established by enthusiasts who recognized cinema’s cultural importance. The Archive’s mission has always been broad—collecting, preserving, restoring, and showcasing both Swiss and international films, while promoting film culture in Switzerland’s diverse linguistic regions and beyond (Cinémathèque suisse).

Growth and Recognition

Today, the Archive is a member of the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF) and ranks among the top ten film archives in the world. Its holdings include:

• 85,000+ films (silent classics to digital productions)
• 2.5–3 million photographs
• 500,000–1 million posters
• 10,000 scripts, 26,000 books, and 2,000 rare cameras
• Ciné-Journal suisse newsreels and extensive amateur film collections

The Archive’s facilities in Lausanne and Penthaz are state-of-the-art, ensuring long-term preservation and accessibility for research and public enjoyment (swissinfo.ch).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Main Venues

• Cinéma Capitole (Avenue du Théâtre 6, Lausanne): Main screening venue, historic auditorium, and soon-to-open bookshop
• Casino de Montbenon: Additional screening and exhibition space
• Research and Archive Centre in Penthaz: For researchers (by appointment)

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Closed: Mondays and public holidays
• Evening Screenings: Check the official Cinémathèque suisse program for updated schedules

Tickets

• Standard Screenings (Capitole): CHF 15 (standard), CHF 12/10 (reduced)
• Montbenon Screenings: CHF 10 (standard), CHF 8 (reduced)
• Discounts: Students, seniors, groups; children under 16 often free
• Purchasing: Buy online or at the venue box office. Advance booking is advised for popular events.

Accessibility

• All public areas are wheelchair accessible, with adapted restrooms and elevators.
• Assistance and special accommodations can be arranged by contacting the Archive ahead of your visit.

Special Events and Screenings

Each year, the Cinémathèque suisse hosts over 1,000 public screenings—daily heritage films, retrospectives, previews, and tributes. Many events feature Q&As with filmmakers, actors, or scholars. Highlights for June 2025 include “Je, tu, il, elle,” “Mauvais Sang,” “Say God Bye,” “Naissance des pieuvres,” and “Thelma & Louise.” Themed programs such as "Classiques du cinéma" and "Cinéma Queer" offer deep dives into cinema history (lausannemusees.ch).

The Archive also hosts unique photographic exhibitions, workshops, and masterclasses, further enriching the visitor experience.

Exploring Lausanne’s Nearby Attractions

Extend your cultural journey by exploring Lausanne’s renowned sites, all within easy reach of the Cinémathèque suisse:

• Lausanne Old Town: Medieval streets and vibrant squares
• Olympic Museum: Celebrating sports history
• Lausanne Cathedral: Gothic architecture and panoramic views
• Ouchy Waterfront and Lake Geneva: Scenic strolls along the shore
• Collection de l’Art Brut: Outsider art masterpieces

Combining your Archive visit with these attractions makes for a rich and memorable day (lausanne-tourisme.ch).

Archive’s Role in Preservation, Restoration, and Contemporary Cinema

The Cinémathèque suisse leads in film restoration and digitization, employing cutting-edge technologies and even artificial intelligence for cataloguing and mass digitization (swissinfo.ch). It restores around 40 short films and 6–7 feature films annually, reviving classics such as "Fusilier Wipf" (1939) and New Wave landmarks like Alain Tanner’s "Charles mort ou vif" (1970) (House of Switzerland).

The Archive actively supports new Swiss cinema through partnerships with festivals like Locarno and showcases contemporary successes, including Ursula Meier’s "Sister" and the documentary "More than Honey."

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The Cinéma Capitole, originally opened in 1928 and renovated in 2024, is Switzerland’s largest historic cinema. Its grand auditorium (731 seats) and new 140-seat basement hall provide a blend of heritage charm and modern comfort, with a café, bar, and soon a curated bookshop (lausannemusees.ch).

The Archive’s contemporary facilities in Penthaz ensure optimal preservation of cinematic treasures, with climate-controlled vaults and advanced digital infrastructure (cinematheque.ch).

Visitor Experience and Travel Tips

• Arrive Early: For best seating, especially during popular events
• Language: Screenings are typically in original language with French and/or German subtitles; some offer English subtitles
• Photography: Allowed in designated areas; consult staff for guidelines
• Combine Visits: Pair your Archive visit with Lausanne’s Old Town or museums for a full cultural experience
• Shop and Café: Enjoy the on-site café and browse books, DVDs, and memorabilia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Swiss Film Archive’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays.

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

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book in advance for groups or individuals.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: In designated areas only; please check with staff.

Q: Are films subtitled?
A: Most films have French and/or German subtitles; some special events offer English subtitles.

Planning Your Visit

• Address: Cinémathèque suisse, Cinéma Capitole, Avenue du Théâtre 6, 1005 Lausanne
• Phone: +41 (0)58 800 02 00
• Official Website: cinematheque.ch
• Program and Tickets: live.cinematheque.ch
• Transport: Easily accessible by metro (Lausanne Flon, M2) and numerous bus lines; limited parking available

Stay connected—follow the Cinémathèque suisse on social media for event announcements and download the Audiala app for cinema guides and recommendations (Download the Audiala App).

Key Figures at a Glance

• Film reels: 700,000
• Film titles: 85,000
• Photographs: 2.5–3 million
• Posters: 500,000–1 million
• Scripts: 10,000
• Books: 26,000
• Film cameras: 2,000
• Annual restorations: 15–20 films