Roubaix

Roubaix is a commune in northern France that forms part of the Lille metropolitan area and sits near the Belgian border along the Canal de Roubaix. The built environment includes former factory buildings in red brick, residential blocks, and redeveloped commercial areas reflecting its earlier industrial era.

The textile industry transformed the town during the 19th century from a small commune into a major production center, with population growing from 25,000 to 122,000 residents before World War I. After the decline of textile factories in the second half of the 20th century, a gradual shift toward services and technology began.

The city carries a Flemish-origin name reflecting its position near the language border, where French and Flemish influences remain visible today. Local markets and shops show this mixture in architecture and daily life, especially in neighborhoods close to the Belgian frontier.

The town is accessible via motorway connections from Lille or Belgium, with public transport within the metropolitan area also available. Walking through former industrial neighborhoods and along the canal offers insight into the urban layout and its evolution.

The Paris-Roubaix cycling race finishes at the municipal velodrome and has used the notorious cobblestone roads of the region since 1896. La Piscine Museum occupies a former art deco swimming pool and displays collections of 19th and 20th-century painting, sculpture, and textile art.

Location: Lille metropolis

Location: arrondissement of Lille

Location: Nord

Elevation above the sea: 33 m

Shares border with: Wattrelos, Tourcoing, Croix, Hem, Leers, Lys-lez-Lannoy, Wasquehal

Address: 59100 Roubaix, France

Phone: +33320664600

Email: contact@ville-roubaix.fr

Website: https://ville-roubaix.fr

GPS coordinates: 50.69000,3.18167

Latest update: December 15, 2025 07:32