Cinema Colisée, Carcassonne

Nestled at the crossroads of Boulevard Omer Sarraut and Avenue du Marechal Joffre, the Cinema Colisée in Carcassonne stands as a testament to cultural evolution, blending cinematic innovation with a storied past. Known for its dedication to auteur cinema, original subtitled films, and its labels for research, discovery, young audiences, and heritage, this recently renovated space has become a sanctuary for film enthusiasts.

The Colisée's story began in 1912 as a ballroom designed by Florentin Belin for the Grand Hôtel Terminus. Overlooking Boulevard Omer Sarraut, it hosted Carcassonne's cultural events for eight years before being transformed in 1921 by banker Auguste Beauquier into the Theater of Novelties (Théâtre des Nouveautés). Inspired by the Vichy Opera House, the revamped venue featured Art Nouveau décor, luxurious seating, and a connection to Café Terminus. Opening on April 1, 1922, with La fille de Madame Angot, it flourished under François Fargues, offering operettas, plays, and films until 1932.

In 1932, the Theater of Novelties transitioned into the Le Colisée cinema, with François Fargues’ son continuing his father’s cultural legacy. During WWII, the cinema served as a venue for Nazi propaganda, a dark chapter in its history. Yet, the post-war years brought new life, and by 1980, the Colisée expanded into a five-screen complex.

In 2001, the grand theater room underwent meticulous restoration, showcasing its original charm. However, it closed to the public in 2012, marking the end of an era. Today, the Cinema Colisée has reinvented itself once more, offering a beautifully modernized venue focused on cinematographic excellence. Its partnership with Friends of Cinoche ensures regular screenings of art films alongside the latest blockbusters.

From its origins as a party room to its current status as a hub for film connoisseurs, the Cinema Colisée continues to bridge Carcassonne’s cultural past and present. With its grand legacy and focus on cinematic artistry, it invites audiences to not only watch films but to step into a living piece of history.