Film Museum Potsdam
Discover the oldest film museum in Germany in the heart of Potsdam. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the legendary Babelsberg Film Studios. Experience daily film screenings and unique silent film events accompanied by historical Welte cinema organ music. Welcome to the Filmmuseum Potsdam!
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Film Museum Potsdam: Oldest Film Museum in Germany
The Film Museum Potsdam was established in 1981 as the “Film Museum of the GDR” and is the oldest film museum in Germany with its own collection and exhibitions. Since 1990, it has carried its current name and is under the auspices of the state of Brandenburg, administratively linked with the Film University Babelsberg.
The museum is housed in the Marstall of the Potsdam City Palace and focuses on the world’s oldest film studio in Babelsberg, its productions, and the artists who worked there. The collections and permanent exhibition highlight the history of film productions by Bioscop, Ufa, DEFA, and Studio Babelsberg. The program includes rotating exhibitions on German and international film and media topics, family exhibitions, and foyer displays.
Visitors can explore a museum shop and enjoy multiple daily film screenings in a cinema. Notably, the museum hosts silent film screenings accompanied by the historical Welte cinema organ.
Since its inception, the museum has undergone significant development, particularly after German reunification, expanding its collections, research activities, and program offerings. In 2011, the exhibition “Traumfabrik – 100 Years of Film in Babelsberg” opened, showcasing the extensive history of the Babelsberg film studios.
The Film Museum Potsdam is a member of the Deutsche Kinemathek Association and offers visitors the chance to experience the history of film firsthand, from the origins of film ideas to the stars on screen and the technology behind the scenes.
Film Museum Potsdam: Exhibitions and Program
The Film Museum, located in the Marstall building, presents three exhibition formats:
- The permanent exhibition “Traumfabrik – 100 Years of Film in Babelsberg” explores the history of Studio Babelsberg and the film production process.
- Interactive thematic rooms provide insights into film crafts and processes.
- Rotating special exhibitions such as “Sam Shaw – 60 Years of Photography” on the upper floor.
In the foyer, visitors can explore free exhibitions, including the “Bioscop” projector and the “Special Object” of the month. In the cinema hall, visitors can enjoy musical film screenings with historical technology and seating. Additionally, the museum café invites guests for conversations and dialogue.
Address
Breite Str. 1A, 14467 Potsdam
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Film Museum Potsdam: Tickets & Tours
The museum is easily accessible by regional express from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Visitors with the Berlin WelcomeCard receive a 29% discount on the permanent exhibition and special exhibitions. Children up to the age of five have free admission. Guided tours by knowledgeable guides are available for groups.
Learn more about filmmaking in Potsdam at the Babelsberg Film Park!