Institut Lumière

In Lyon, the birthplace of cinema, the Institut Lumière occupies the Villa Lumière, seat of an association founded in 1982 to promote and preserve film heritage. It is also a museum paying tribute to Auguste and Louis Lumière, inventors of the cinématographe. An obvious visit for film lovers, and a pleasant surprise for anyone curious.

The Villa Lumière

The Institut has its seat at the Villa Lumière, in the east of Lyon, a residential district away from the bustle of the centre. The visit therefore has a particular charm: you come to a place steeped in history, not an anonymous museum, and you can extend it with a walk through the neighbourhood.

A home for film heritage

The Institut Lumière was founded in Lyon in 1982 as a French non-profit association. Its work is devoted to promoting and preserving film heritage. The visit therefore goes beyond simply recalling the past: the institute helps keep the cinema of yesterday and today alive.

A tribute to the Lumière brothers

The Institut is also a museum paying tribute to Auguste and Louis Lumière, inventors of the cinématographe. For anyone interested in the history of moving images, it is a chance to go back to the beginnings of cinema, where it all started. Fans of photography and the history of technology will also find plenty to enjoy.

How to visit

Listed hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6:30pm. Official website: institut-lumiere.org; phone: +33 4 78 78 18 95. Check before your visit, especially if you hope to attend a screening or an event.