A multilayered cell culture apparatus for the culturing of cells is disclosed. The cell culture apparatus is defined as an integral structure having a plurality of flexible cell culture compartments in combination with a spacer material maintaining air space(s). The expandable compartments of the cell culture apparatus have imparted therein gas permeable membranes in combination with air spaces that will allow the free flow of gases between the cell culture compartments and the external environment. Furthermore an interconnecting passageway is provided between each compartment and between the cell culturing vessel and the external environment. The expandable vessel promotes the growth of large numbers of adherent or suspension cells by providing the volumes of nutrient medium and gaseous exchange.