At 60 Rue Saint-Jean in Vieux Lyon, the Musée Cinéma et Miniature brings together two collections in the historic Maison des Avocats: intricately made miniature scenes and film props, costumes and special-effects pieces. Look closely at more than 100 miniature worlds, then spot familiar objects such as Darth Vader’s mask, Batman suits, Thor’s hammer and animatronic Alien creatures. The range of exhibits gives film fans plenty to recognise, while the tiny scenes reward a slower look. Allow time for both sections, especially if you are visiting with children.
Two collections in the Maison des Avocats
The Musée Cinéma et Miniature occupies the Maison des Avocats, a historic building on Rue Saint-Jean in Vieux Lyon. Inside, the visit brings together miniature art and objects connected to filmmaking. The two collections have different scales and subjects: one asks you to look closely at scenes built by hand, while the other shows the props, costumes and effects used to bring films to life.
The miniatures include more than 100 highly detailed scenes based on everyday settings. Take your time at each display; small objects and activities can be easy to miss at a glance. The collection includes work by founder Dan Ohlmann and other miniature artists.
Film props and special effects
The cinema collection contains hundreds of objects associated with film productions, including costumes, models and special-effects pieces. Recognisable examples include Darth Vader’s mask, Batman suits, Thor’s hammer Mjolnir and an Iron Man glove. Animatronic Alien creatures and displays connected to films such as Indiana Jones, Jumanji and Jurassic Park give the collection a focus on practical effects as well as movie memorabilia.
The exhibits also provide a look at techniques used behind the scenes, from animatronics to film sets and special-effects equipment. Families with children who enjoy cinema may find this more hands-on subject engaging than a conventional art collection.
Planning a visit
The museum is at 60 Rue Saint-Jean, in Vieux Lyon. Its two collections are the main reason to allow more than a quick walk-through: plan for around one to two hours, with extra time if you want to linger at favourite scenes or props.
Advance tickets are recommended. If queues are a concern, check the ticket options before you go and weigh them against buying at the museum. Confirm that both collections are open on your chosen day so you can see the miniatures and cinema exhibits in one visit.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long do you need at the Musée Cinéma et Miniature?
Plan for about one to two hours. The miniature scenes reward a slower look, so allow more time if you want to examine their details.
What can you see at the museum?
The museum has miniature scenes and a collection of film props, costumes and special-effects pieces. Exhibits include Darth Vader’s mask, Batman suits and animatronic Alien creatures.
Is it worth buying tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended. If you are concerned about queues, compare the advance option with buying tickets on site.
Where is the Musée Cinéma et Miniature?
It is at 60 Rue Saint-Jean in Vieux Lyon, inside the historic Maison des Avocats.
