CINEMATEK

CINEMATEK is the operating name of the Royal Belgian Film Archive, the national cinematheque of Belgium, based in Brussels. For decades the institution has served as the custodian of Belgium's cinematic heritage, collecting, preserving and making accessible an extensive film collection.

What does CINEMATEK do?

At its core, the institution is an archive: it gathers film prints, conserves them and digitises material so it survives the natural decay of film stock over time. The collection places particular emphasis on Belgian cinema, spanning fiction, documentary and experimental works produced throughout the country's film history. Alongside domestic productions, the archive also holds a broader cross-section of world cinema, making CINEMATEK one of the more significant film archives in Europe.

The material it preserves is not simply kept in storage — the institution actively shares it with the public. This happens through regular film screenings that let audiences see, on the big screen, titles rarely available through standard cinema or streaming distribution, including silent-era classics, archival productions and rare prints.

What else does it offer?

Beyond screenings, CINEMATEK organises exhibitions covering the history of cinema, its creators and film-making technique. This means the institution functions not only as an archive but also as an educational and exhibition space, introducing visitors to the development of film as an art form from its earliest days. Its activities are complemented by educational programmes aimed at schools as well as the wider public interested in the history and theory of film. Through this combination, CINEMATEK bridges the role of a national archive with that of an active cultural venue, open to residents and visitors to Brussels alike.

When is it worth visiting?

CINEMATEK is open most days of the week, though hours vary depending on the day. On Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays (including public holidays), the institution welcomes visitors from 17:30 until at least 21:30. On Thursdays and Sundays it opens earlier, from 14:30, also closing no earlier than 21:30. On Saturdays, doors open at 16:30, with closing likewise no earlier than 21:30. The same pattern applies to public holidays falling on each respective day. Because opening hours are closely tied to the screening schedule, it's worth checking the current programme before planning a visit.

Frequently asked questions

Is CINEMATEK just a regular cinema? Not quite — it is primarily a national film archive and cinematheque that, alongside preserving and conserving film prints, also runs regular screenings, exhibitions and educational activities.

What kind of films can you see there? The programme is based mainly on archival holdings, with a particular focus on Belgian cinema, complemented by a broader selection of world film classics.

Are there exhibitions as well? Yes, the institution organises exhibitions dedicated to the history of film, its creators, and the techniques of shooting and production.

Are the programmes also aimed at children and schools? CINEMATEK's educational programmes are open to a range of audiences, including students and anyone interested in deepening their knowledge of film.

What time is best to visit? It depends on the day of the week — on Thursdays and Sundays the institution opens as early as 14:30, on other weekdays from 17:30, and on Saturdays from 16:30.