“Playing Cards”: The New Exhibition at the Swiss Museum of Games

From the First Cards to the Pokémon Phenomenon

First appearing in Europe at the end of the Middle Ages, playing cards have continued to travel, evolve, and reinvent themselves. From tarot cards and traditional games to illustrated cards, artistic creations, and even collectible cards: the exhibition showcases the full richness of this object, which has become a true reflection of our societies.

The exhibition takes us through the contemporary world of collectible card games, featuring franchises such as Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and One Piece, which today bring together millions of players and collectors around the world.

Nearly 600 years of history to discover

Through historical artifacts, rare and fascinating maps, objects from public and private collections, as well as interactive exhibits that allow visitors to play and experiment, “Playing Cards” invites visitors to discover playing cards in all their facets.

As you explore the exhibition, discover how playing cards have evolved, traveled, and been reinvented over nearly 600 years of history, leading up to today’s collectible card games.

The exhibition provides answers to all these questions through an exhibition experience that is accessible to everyone.

“Playing Cards: From Their Origins to Collectible Cards” is now on view at the Swiss Museum of Games, at the Château de La Tour-de-Peilz.