The magic lantern or laterna magica was widely used as a projection device from the 17th to the 20th century. Initially the flame of a lamp, later an incandescent lamp, served as a light source, with which the magic lantern, or also the lantern of horror as precursor of the film projector, flickered colours, images and stories over the walls. Performances took place at fairs, in cafés, theatres, churches or at home. Travelling with the flying carpet from the Alps abroad, wild animals, natural dramas, fairy tales and hellish scenarios, the laterna magica immerses the audience in a symphony of images.

The exhibition uses modern projection and animation technology to bring the historical glass plate images to life. It is an invitation to stroll through glittering painting worlds and discover fascinating stories in the interplay of light and shadow. Collections from the Upper Engadine Cultural Archive, the Rhaetian Museum and selected international collections illustrate the development of projection technology and other optical games through to the latest 3D technology.