Cinema Radio

Cinema Radio – Talaat Harb, Downtown Cairo

Cinema Radio is one of Cairo’s most iconic and historic cultural landmarks, nestled in the heart of Talaat Harb Street in Downtown Cairo.

Originally established in the 1930s, Cinema Radio has long been a symbol of Egypt’s golden age of cinema and a centerpiece of its vibrant urban culture.

Historical Background

Constructed during a period of architectural and cultural flourishing in Egypt, Cinema Radio was part of the wave of art deco buildings that came to define Downtown Cairo.

Designed with grandeur and elegance, it initially functioned as a luxury cinema theater, screening the latest international and Egyptian films.

The cinema was among the few venues where the Egyptian elite would gather, making it a hub of social life and a platform for the country’s growing film industry.

The building’s name, “Radio,” is a reflection of its association with Radio Misr, the national radio broadcasting station, which at one point used part of the building. The cinema itself had one of the largest auditoriums in the city, accommodating hundreds of guests in its heyday.

Cultural Revival and Modern Use

After years of decline and disuse, Cinema Radio underwent restoration and was revived in the 2010s, thanks to cultural initiatives and private efforts to rejuvenate Downtown Cairo’s historic venues.

Most notably, it became the home of Bassem Youssef’s satirical show “Al Bernameg” in its later seasons, bringing new life and contemporary relevance to the venue.

Today, Cinema Radio operates as a multi-purpose cultural space, hosting a wide range of events including:

• Theatrical performances
• Stand-up comedy
• Independent film screenings
• Concerts and musical performances
• Talks and literary events

Its central location makes it an accessible and attractive destination for both locals and tourists interested in Cairo’s artistic and architectural heritage.

Location and Surroundings

Cinema Radio is located on Talaat Harb Street, sits at the crossroads of Cairo’s cultural, commercial, and political life. It is surrounded by bookstores, cafés, historic hotels, and galleries, all contributing to the unique urban tapestry of Downtown Cairo.

The area is known for its European-inspired city planning and buildings from the Khedival era, offering visitors a rich, immersive historical experience. – Google Maps location 

Legacy

Cinema Radio is more than just a performance venue; it’s a living monument to Cairo’s artistic legacy. It bridges the past and present, preserving the grandeur of classic Egyptian cinema while embracing contemporary cultural expression.

For many, it symbolizes the enduring spirit of Downtown Cairo as a cradle of creativity, dialogue, and national memory.

Read more about the The Legacy of Cinema Radio