The cryopreservation of cells and tissue cultures for long term storage of cells, cell constructs or three-dimensional complex tissues assemblies is based on the use of a collagen cell carrier (CCC) having a specific composition and thickness and appropriate mechanical properties which are maintained after thawing. The collagen cell carrier provides a suitable support for the cryopreservation resulting in high survival rates after thawing and providing cells and tissue assemblies already adhered to a mechanically stable and biocompatible support. Frozen collagen carrier-cells assemblies, the frozen artificial cell constructs or three-dimensional complex tissue assemblies obtainable by the method and the use thereof after thawing are also disclosed.