Cinématek
Located less than a 10-minute walk from 9Hotel Central, in the heart of Brussels, the Royal Belgian Film Archive (Cinémathèque royale de Belgique) is a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts and lovers of cultural heritage. Founded in 1938, it is now recognized as one of Europe’s most significant film archives, with a collection of over 100,000 film prints from across the globe.
A landmark dedicated to the memory of cinema
More than just an archive, the Royal Belgian Film Archive is a space where cinema is preserved, celebrated, and shared. Through screenings, exhibitions, and events, the institution promotes international film heritage and invites visitors to discover or rediscover great works in a thoughtful and accessible setting.
A two-part experience
The museum is divided into two main areas. The first features a permanent exhibition focused on the prehistory of cinema, where visitors can explore early optical toys, magic lanterns, and the first film cameras and projectors. This space offers an engaging and educational look at the roots of moving images.
The second area is dedicated to screenings. Films from the archive are regularly shown in optimal conditions, often in their original versions. A unique highlight of the experience is the screening of silent films accompanied by live piano music, faithfully recreating the atmosphere of early cinema viewings.
A small additional museum section further explores the history of Belgian and international cinema through a curated selection of film posters, memorabilia, and rare footage.
Practical information
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Address: 9 Rue Baron-Horta – 1000 Brussels
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Phone: +32 (0)2 551 19 19
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Opening hours: Vary depending on exhibitions and screenings – check the official website
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Access: Just a 10-minute walk from 9Hotel Central, near Mont des Arts and other major cultural sites
A cultural stop not to be missed
Intimate, immersive, and richly informative, the Royal Belgian Film Archive is a unique cultural experience in Brussels. It offers visitors the opportunity to engage with the evolution of cinematic language and appreciate the role of film in shaping our collective imagination.
