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Origin and history

The Cinéma Castillet, located in Perpignan in the Pyrénées-Orientales, is one of the oldest cinemas in France still in operation. Built in 1911 by architect Eugene Montès and decorated by sculptor Alexandre Guénot, it is inspired by 19th-century theatrical architecture while integrating Art Nouveau motifs. Its facade, decorated with enamelled ceramics and moulded cement, was strongly criticized at its inauguration for its style considered funeral, but its inauguration on 7 November 1911, with humanitarian aims, was a success.

The cinema was founded by Jean Font, a film enthusiast from Barcelona, who chose Perpignan after discovering the ideal location on Wilson Boulevard. The facades and roofs, including the metal marquise added in 1912, were listed as historical monuments in 1997. The Castillet survived difficult times, such as the closure imposed during the First World War (1914-1915), before reopening under strict conditions, including the return of 25% of the profits to charities.

In 1918, expansions helped to welcome theatre troops and operettas, diversifying its cultural offer. Jean Font has innovated by organizing open-air cinema sessions in 1922, free and then paid, with great success. The transition to cinema in 1930, first at the New Theatre and then at the Castillet, marked a new era, despite the financial challenges associated with rising prices. In 1936, Jean Font, after 26 years of dedication, received the Legion of Honour.

The cinema has also experienced dramas, such as the 1934 fatal fire in another Perpignan cinema, resulting in increased security standards. Despite tensions with the municipality, especially because of its Spanish origin, Jean Font maintained the Castillet as a central place of local cultural life. In 1953, a renovation by architect Scob modernized the room, while preserving its historic character. Today, its facades, almost unchanged since 1911, bear witness to its unique architectural and cultural heritage.

The interior decorations, made by Alexandre Guénot, combine moulded cement and polychrome ceramic friezes, inspired by Art Nouveau. Funeral towers and floral motifs, although criticized at the time, are now emblematic elements of the monument. The Castillet is a "patrimoine du XXe siècle", a symbol of resilience and innovation in the history of French cinema.

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