The Fondation Martin Bodmer, located in Cologny in the hills above Geneva, is a unique library-museum devoted to the history of writing. Its extraordinary collection, recognised as a UNESCO Memory of the World site, spans five millennia — from ancient papyri to landmark manuscripts such as the Gutenberg Bible and autograph letters by Shakespeare, Newton, Mozart, and Proust. The Foundation combines conservation and research with exhibitions and activities for all ages on topics related to science, the arts, history, and literature. It invites us on a journey through the history of books, in an architectural setting designed by Mario Botta that reflects our global cultural heritage.
Fondation Martin Bodmer
Back to museumsClosed for refurbishment. Museum reopening planned for 2026.
Did you know?
Upon learning that he was about to be dismissed, Rousseau drafted a pedagogical plan in 1740 in an attempt to save his first job as tutor to his employer’s two sons. His employer, having noted his “incompetence” in performing his duties properly, would dismiss him regardless. The project, an autograph manuscript, is held at the Martin Bodmer Foundation.
It is worth noting that, twenty years later, Rousseau would emerge as the foremost revolutionary in modern educational thought.
Route Martin Bodmer 19
1223 Cologny
Opening hours
- Tuesday to Sunday from 2pm to 6pm
- First Wednesday of the month: Open until 9pm with a guided tour at 7pm
- Closed on Mondays and public holidays (December 24, 25, 26, 31, January 1 and 2)
Parking
- Foundation car park (capacity ~15 spaces)
- Manoir and Forge car parks
Public transport
- Bus: A Cologny‑Temple | 33 Cologny-Croisée
Services
- Small cafeteria on site
- Books shop and gift shop
Accessibility
- Access for people with reduced mobility: Buildings and museum accessible to people with reduced mobility
- 2 disabled parking spaces
- Outdoor and indoor signage adapted for people with visual impairments
A temperature of 18-19°C is maintained for the preservation of the works. Please take this into account when choosing your clothing.
Prices
- Adults: CHF 15
- Students, pensioners, unemployed persons: CHF 10
- Free entry: Those under 18 years of age, holders of the Geneva Pass, Cologny residents, etc.
- First Wednesday of the month (6pm–9pm): Free admission