International Museum of the Reformation

The International Museum of the Reformation (Musee International de la Reforme) in Geneva presents the story of the Protestant Reformation which occurred in Switzerland in the 16th century.

History of International Museum of the Reformation

The museum opened in 2005, and is located on the ground floor and in part of the basement of the Maison Mallet, an 18th century home which was built on the foundations of St. Pierre’s Cathedral, where the Reform was voted in 1536.

It was founded with the intention of intertwining reflections of the past with programmes of cultural exchange, workshops for young people, and temporary exhibitions which engage with more modern themes.

It is home to around 500 authentic objects such as pictures, engravings, books, manuscripts, medals, photos, and other objects such as communion chalices, watches, and small scale models.

In 2012, a private collector donated an exceptional manuscript written by Martin Luther which dates back to the 16th century which is now on display in the museum.

International Museum of the Reformation Today

Spread over some twelve rooms, the International Museum of the Reformation looks at the important events surrounding the history of Protestantism from its very beginnings, exploring it through the ages and bringing it right up to present day.

It also describes the lives of the men and women who contributed to the foundation of the Reformation Movement.

The exhibits use a variety of mediums to do this, from historic items such as paintings, original manuscripts, engravings and religious objects, through to modern media including films.

There is also significance to the Maison Mallet, the 18th century building where the International Museum of the Reformation is housed, as it sits on the former site of the cloisters of St. Pierre’s Cathedral. It was also the former home of notable Huguenot, Gedeon Mallet.

Entry includes a free audio guide, available in French, German and English.

Getting to International Museum of the Reformation

From the centre of Geneva, the International Museum of the Reformation is reachable in around 10 minutes by foot via Rue de la Cité and Grand-Rue. By car, it takes around 4 minutes via the Rue François-Diday road to reach the museum. There is also an extensive public transport network from Bel-Air bus station which takes three minutes to the Molard stop, from where the walk is 5 minutes.