Tucked away in the heart of Turin, Italy, lies an extraordinary museum that takes visitors on a journey through the history of cinema, from its humble beginnings to the present day. The National Film Museum, located inside the iconic Mole Antonelliana, is a treasure trove of cinematic wonders, showcasing an impressive collection of films, photographs, documents, prints, records, and more.
What to Expect: An Immersive Experience
As you step into the museum, you’ll be greeted by 10 thematic areas, each carefully designed to transport you through time and around the world of cinema. These areas are a must-visit for any film enthusiast or curious traveler. From the Archeology of Cinema to the Cineteca, each section offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager for more.
1. Archeology of Cinema: Uncovering the Past
This area takes us on a journey through the ages, exploring how people entertained themselves before the advent of cinema. You’ll discover relics from ancient civilizations, such as Chinese shadows and magic lanterns, showcasing the evolution of storytelling. A treasure trove of prints, paintings, ceramics, and other rare iconographic items will leave you in awe.
2. Photographic Archive: Capturing the Moment
With over 1 million images, this collection is a photographer’s paradise. You’ll witness pivotal moments in cinema history through the lens of renowned photographers who captured iconic shots on set, location, portraits of actors and directors, silent film screenings, and Italian and foreign sound film screenings.
3. Posters and Advertising Materials: The Art of Cartellonistica
This area boasts an impressive collection of 535,000 objects, including posters, advertising materials, and promotional items. You’ll uncover the fascinating world of cartellonistica created by great designers for the release of films, highlighting the visual aspects of cinema.
4. Memorabilia of Cinema: Bringing Productions to Life
A treasure trove of stage costumes, set objects, pre-production items, drafts for scenery, animation designs, masks, and models awaits you in this collection. You’ll gain insight into the various phases of production and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into creating cinematic masterpieces.
5. Equipment: The Heart of Cinematography
Get ready to be amazed by the vast array of cinematographic and photographic equipment on display. From cameras to projectors, laboratory equipment, film cameras, enlargers, viewers, stereoscopic viewers, and more – this area is a testament to the real-making process of a film.
6. Cineteca: The Crown Jewel
The museum’s most significant collection boasts over 30,000 films in various formats and from diverse eras and genres of cinema. You’ll discover Hollywood classics, Italian masterpieces, silent films, European directors’ works, advertising films, and animation films.
7. Historical Archive: A Rich Tapestry of Cinema History
This archive is a treasure trove of unique and unpublished elements, including thousands of testimonies of life and activity of companies, directors, screenwriters, actors, and technicians of silent and sound film. You’ll uncover the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped the world of cinema.
8. Library: A Hub for Cinema Enthusiasts
The library is a bibliophile’s paradise, housing 45,000 monographs and 104,000 magazine folders. It’s the most prestigious in Europe for its vastness and variety of heritage, including collections dedicated to Piedmontese photography and Italian silent cinema.
9. Video Archive: A Visual Feast
With thousands of films at your fingertips, you’ll indulge in a cinematic feast, featuring Hollywood classics, Italian masterpieces, silent films, European directors’ works, advertising films, and animation films.
10. Phonographic Archive: Soundtracks that Tell a Story
A catalog of 3,000 records links to cinema contains the soundtracks of hundreds of films signed by famous composers such as Morricone, Bernstein, and Goldsmith. You’ll discover the original voices of famous actors and actresses who sang and acted in their roles.
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Hours and Prices: Planning Your Visit
Before you embark on your cinematic journey, plan your visit wisely:
- The National Film Museum is open every day except Tuesday.
- Reduced operating hours by two hours on holidays.
- Full ticket costs €11.00; discounts for young people, groups, and school groups available.
Tips for Visiting the National Film Museum
To make the most of your visit:
- Arrive early to avoid queues (9:00 am – 11:00 am or 18:00 pm – 20:00 pm).
- Consider purchasing a city card for convenience.
- Book online tickets, including combined tickets with other attractions.
Animals Inside the Museum
While domestic animals are allowed inside the museum, please note that larger and medium-sized animals must stay at the ground floor of the Mole Antonelliana.
Panoramic Elevator: A Breathtaking View
Take advantage of the panoramic elevator to ascend to the museum, adding €15.00 (€12.00 reduced) to your ticket price.
Minimum Time Recommended: 2 Hours +
To truly appreciate the wonders of the National Film Museum, plan for at least 2 hours of exploration time. Consider spending 2.5 hours to fully immerse yourself in the cinematic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best time to visit the museum?
Best time to avoid queues: between 9:00 am and 11:00 am and between 18:00 pm and 20:00 pm. - How much does a ticket cost?
Full ticket: €11.00; discounts available for young people, groups, and school groups. - Can I bring my pet into the museum?
Yes, but only small domestic animals are allowed inside the museum. - Is there an audio guide or multimedia tour available?
Yes, a multimedia guide is available at the entrance for €5.00. - What is included in the combined ticket with other attractions?
Combined ticket includes entry to the Mole Antonelliana and tourist bus tour. - How many films does the Cineteca collection contain?
Over 30,000 films in various formats and from diverse eras and genres of cinema. - What is the Phonographic Archive’s significance?
The Phonographic Archive contains soundtracks of hundreds of films signed by famous composers. - Can I visit the museum on holidays?
Yes, but reduced operating hours apply.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the world of cinema at the National Film Museum in Turin. With its vast collection and interactive exhibits, this museum is a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Additional Tips
- Be prepared to spend at least 2 hours exploring the museum.
- Take breaks to rest your feet and enjoy the panoramic views from the Mole Antonelliana.
- Don’t miss the special exhibitions that take place throughout the year.
- Attend one of the guided tours or workshops offered by the museum to gain a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
Address:
Mole Antonelliana, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 1,
10121 Turin (TO), Italy
Phone: +39 011 320 24 45
Email: info@filmuseum.it
Website: filmmuseo.it
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 am – 7:30 pm
Sunday and Holidays: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Ticket Prices:
Full ticket: €11.00
Reduced ticket for young people, groups, and school groups: €8.50
Free admission for children under 18 years old
Audio Guide:
€5.00 (available at the entrance)
Accessibility:
The museum is wheelchair accessible.
Catering Options:
There are no catering options available inside the museum, but you can purchase snacks and drinks from a vending machine on site.
Language:
Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, and other languages are spoken by staff members at the museum.
Social Media:
Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with the latest news and events:
Facebook: @FilmMuseumTurin
Instagram: @FilmMuseoTorino
We look forward to welcoming you to the National Film Museum in Turin!
