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Musee Cinema Et Miniature

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Visit the Cinema and Miniature Museum in Lyon. Explore original movie props, special effects secrets, and world-class hyperrealistic miniature scenes.

Musee Cinema Et Miniature

Visit the Cinema and Miniature Museum in Lyon. Explore original movie props, special effects secrets, and world-class hyperrealistic miniature scenes.

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About Musee Cinema Et Miniature

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Magic and Precision in Old Lyon Located in the heart of Lyon's historic Old Town, in the magnificent UNESCO-listed Maison des Avocats (Lawyers' House), this museum is a truly unique experience. It houses two extraordinary collections that celebrate the talent of unsung heroes. On one side, you'll discover the fascinating art of Dan Ohlmann's miniatures, strikingly realistic 1/12th scale reproductions of living spaces. On the other, the museum displays one of Europe's largest collections of film negatives, prosthetics, and props, revealing the secrets of mechanical special effects before the digital age. Wandering through the 16th-century vaulted halls, you'll come face to face with iconic pieces of cinematic history, such as the masks from Mrs. Doubtfire, the robot from I, Robot, and original props from the Star Wars saga. Each object is presented with an educational purpose: to explain how technicians and artists create the illusion. This hybrid space, blending cinematic nostalgia and technical prowess, has become a cornerstone of tourism in Lyon, captivating both seasoned film buffs and families curious to discover what goes on behind the scenes.

Tip for an even more exceptional visit.

To fully appreciate the intricate details of the miniatures, I recommend using a magnifying glass or your smartphone's zoom: some details, like the texture of the wallpaper or the dust on a tiny piece of furniture, are invisible to the naked eye. The museum is very busy on weekends; try to visit in the late afternoon to wander more freely through the narrow corridors of this historic building. Also note that the rooms are dimly lit to preserve the collection, which enhances the mysterious atmosphere. Expert tip: Don't miss the room dedicated to the behind-the-scenes of the film Perfume, where the original sets have been completely recreated. It's the perfect place to understand the true scale of a film set. Finally, if you are sensitive or traveling with young children, be careful in the section devoted to creatures from horror and science fiction films (like Alien): it's spectacular, but can be overwhelming! After the visit, take advantage of being in Old Lyon to explore the traboules located right next to the museum.