Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes an electromagnetic actuator for operating a gas exchange valve, this actuator being situated on a cylinder head. The actuator includes a switchable electromagnet which is situated between two armatures. The armatures are axially set apart on a common armature shaft. A cavity is configured in the cylinder head, in which the actuator armature on the cylinder head side is at least partially accommodated, and the electromagnet at least partially delimits the cavity on the actuator side. This results in a compact internal combustion engine.