The Cité du Cinéma is a 12,000 m² hub of events and creativity that embodies the power of the imagination. Initially known as the birthplace of France’s greatest cinematic productions, it is now preparing to open its doors to the public and to businesses with an ambition beyond measure. It’s a spectacular space, where the gigantism of the volumes is matched by a complete architectural reinvention.
And this year, the Cité du Cinéma reveals its most enchanting facet: Candlelight concerts transform the monumental industrial architecture into a magical stage.
Table Of Contents
- Roots dating back to the industrial era
- Luc Besson's vision: a place dedicated to 7ᵉ art
- What makes this building so unique?
- Where is the Cité du Cinéma and how do I get there?
- Behind the scenes: filming secrets and the Harry Potter Exhibition
- The heart of the 2024 Olympic Games
- Is it possible to visit the Cité during the Heritage Days?
Roots dating back to the industrial era
Far from the historic center of Paris, the secret of the Cité du Cinéma lies in its spectacular origins: this emblematic site was built on a former industrial wasteland, that of a power plant, whose monumental structure remains. It is this industrial past that gives the site its unique raw architecture, symbolizing the renewal of Greater Paris.
La Cité, located in Saint-Denis, embodies a heritage of power and transformation, rooted in the history of the suburbs, which have always been a major economic engine.
Luc Besson’s vision: a place dedicated to 7ᵉ art
While the site has inherited an industrial structure, it owes its vocation to filmmaker Luc Besson. He is the driving force behind the initial project, propelling the site onto the world stage by setting up his studios here and making the Cité du Cinéma the factory of French 7ᵉ art.
It was here that the recent history of cinema was written, with the creation of the École Nationale Supérieure Louis Lumière (the historic school of French cinema). The Cité du Cinéma is the direct heir to this ambition: a place where imagination, creation and technology meet.
What makes this building so unique?
What’s most impressive about the Cité du Cinéma is its extraordinary size and raw architecture. The heart of the complex is the spectacular Central Nave, a former engine room with metal frameworks that stretches 210 meters in length and reaches a height of 21 meters. Its design highlights the industrial heritage: waxed concrete, vast glass roofs and metal structures create a raw, chic and contemporary style. A perfect venue for conventions and fashion shows!
At dusk, this monumental design takes on its full meaning when thousands of candles from Candlelight concerts illuminate the Central Nave.
Where is the Cité du Cinéma and how do I get there?
The Cité du Cinéma is located at 20 Rue Ampère in Saint-Denis (93), in the heart of the Pleyel district and the Grand Paris construction site. To get there, take metro line 13 and get off at Carrefour Pleyel station, or take line 14 to the Saint Denis – Playel stop .
Thanks to massive investment in transport, access to this emblematic site is undergoing a major transformation. The proximity of the future Saint-Denis Pleyel station (Grand Paris Express) enhances its attractiveness, placing the site just 15 minutes from the center of Paris (Madeleine), ensuring national and international accessibility.
Behind the scenes: filming secrets and the Harry Potter Exhibition
It’s one of the Cité’s most fascinating secrets: its vast sets and backstage areas are said to have served as the backdrops for some of the world’s most successful productions. You could be following in the footsteps of such iconic series as Lupin, Le Bureau des Légendes or the American production Emily in Paris. These rumors, which have never been officially confirmed for any of the locations, underline the Cité’s exceptional appeal.
What is certain, however, is the hosting of major themed events such as theHarry Potter Exhibition. Visitors had the privilege of discovering emblematic sets and original costumes used in the filming of the saga, confirming the Cité’s place as a place where the magic of cinema comes to life.
The heart of the 2024 Olympic Games
The Cité du Cinéma has made contemporary history by becoming a key site for the 2024 Olympic Games, proof of its national importance and the relevance of its XXL infrastructures. The site was chosen and requisitioned for a major strategic mission: to serve as a canteen and training area for the competition’s athletes.
However, this honor did not come without a quid pro quo: the transformation necessitated the temporary shutdown of the film sets. During this period, the film studios, usually reserved for the biggest productions, were put on pause, inevitably bringing part of the film industry to a standstill.
Is it possible to visit the Cité during the Heritage Days?
The Cité du Cinéma is one of the treasures open to the public during the European Heritage Days. These visits are an opportunity to enter the site, access the surroundings and the monumental Nave, and understand the scale of this former power station and creative hub. A unique chance to see behind the scenes!
Other sites in the area
The Saint-Denis area abounds in other historical and modern treasures. You’re close to the historic Basilique de Saint-Denis, necropolis of the kings of France, offering a striking contrast to the industrial architecture of the Cité. The rapidly changing Pleyel district is also a major hub of innovation.
The Cité du Cinéma is just the beginning of your exploration! Many other exceptional Parisian venues can be discovered under the muted, magical light of Candlelight concerts.