Roubaix
City Tours · Nord-Pas-de-Calais
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© 2022
Roubaix has undergone a massive transformation. Where textile industry and mining once determined the city's fate, a vibrant hub for art, design, and innovation has emerged today, reminiscent of the spirit of Berlin in the 90s.
The industrial past now forms the backdrop for a growing artistic scene. Subversive street art accompanies visitors at every turn through the city. It is this mix of harsh industrial history and new, unvarnished creativity that makes Roubaix so exciting. A spontaneous conversation in one of the many local restaurants can often reveal more about the city's spirit than any travel guide.
La Manufacture: The Legacy of the Weavers
At the Manufacture of Roubaix museum, the history of textile production comes to life. From medieval weaving techniques to the decline of the large factories, you gain deep insight into the know-how that shaped the region for centuries.
La Condition Publique: Art & Participation
In a former wool warehouse, La Condition Publique has found its place. It is far more than a museum: a space for international contemporary art and social projects, where artists work together with residents to reoccupy and redesign public spaces.
La Piscine: The Most Beautiful Museum
The centerpiece of cultural renewal is undoubtedly La Piscine. Housed in a magnificent Art Deco bathing facility, the museum combines the pride of former industrialist families with the vibrant popular culture of the workers. A unique place where sculptures line the edge of the pool and light floods into the former swimming hall through the large glass fronts.
Insider Tip
Plan your visit to Roubaix beyond the classic city stroll. The most exciting projects are often hidden in the backyards of old textile manufactories. Take the time to explore the side streets; that’s where the city’s new heart truly beats.
