About Rialto

For more than 100 years, a leading cinema in the heart of Amsterdam’s Pijp.

Rialto has been a leading cinema in Amsterdam for over 100 years, with a clear mission: to showcase cinema that broadens your perspective. What started as an ambitious film theater with an idealistic vision has grown into a prominent cultural meeting place in Amsterdam. Today, we have two inspiring and unique locations: Rialto De Pijp, and from 2026 also Rialto Silo on Zeeburgereiland. Together they form one family, firmly rooted in the city while simultaneously oriented towards the world.

At Rialto, film is about more than just watching. We showcase carefully selected arthouse films with artistic value, social relevance, and international perspectives. Our program is distinctive, engaged, and always driven by quality and relevance. We provide a platform for voices that are less visible elsewhere – from established creators to new talents who embrace experimentation and innovation. Through introductions, Q&A sessions, debates, and special programs, we offer depth and context, ensuring that films continue to resonate long after the credits roll.

Rialto is also a place for meeting, reflection, and connection. Our cinemas serve as cultural anchors in their surroundings and accessible spaces where local residents, creators, and film enthusiasts come together. We believe that film can contribute to a better understanding of each other and the world around us.

With an engaged audience, strong collaborations, and a growing reach – both in our theaters and online – we continue to build towards a future where film inspires, challenges, and connects. Whether you are a seasoned film lover or curious to explore: you are welcome at Rialto.

The History of Rialto

Rialto has been a household name in Amsterdam for over a century. Since its opening on Ceintuurbaan, the cinema has established itself as more than just a neighborhood theater. In the first advertisement, the public was invited to see “only the very latest films” – an ambitious promise that set the tone for the future.

Founder Anton Pieter du Mée, a passionate film lover and social democrat, gave Rialto a distinct character from the beginning. To him, film was more than entertainment: it had to contribute to cultural development and social awareness. His international perspective and involvement with various organizations ensured that Rialto had a broad and progressive program from an early stage.

Due to this vision, Rialto grew into a respected cinema. However, after World War II, it became increasingly difficult to stay afloat. In 1982, closure was even threatened. The unexpected salvation came from a group of young film enthusiasts from Amsterdam's youth culture. They opposed the dominant Hollywood offerings and wanted to create space for independent, artistic cinema. From the Stichting Amsterdams Filmhuis, they took residence in the historic building of Rialto – a collaboration that continues to this day.

Under the leadership of director Raymond Walravens, who took office in 1989, Rialto further developed into a leading cinema. It became a place where films from Latin America, Asia, and Africa also received a platform. In doing so, Rialto remained true to its original mission: to showcase cinema that surprises, deepens, and connects.