La Villa Barbieux

Roubaix is a city in northern France, located in the Lille metropolitan area on the Belgian border. It is a historically mono-industrial commune in the Nord department, which grew rapidly in the 19th century from its textile industries, with most of the same characteristic features as those of English and American boom towns. This former new town has faced many challenges linked to deindustrialisation such as urban decay, with their related economic and social implications, since its major industries fell into decline by the middle of the 1970s. Located to the northeast of Lille, adjacent to Tourcoing, Roubaix is the chef-lieu of two cantons and the fourth largest city in the French region of Hauts-de-France ranked by population with about 98,000 inhabitants.

As you wander through the town's streets, you'll be struck by the stunning examples of Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture that line the way. From the ornate façade of the La Piscine Museum to the intricate details of the town hall, Roubaix's buildings are a testament to the town's unique cultural heritage.

For art lovers, Roubaix is home to some of the most impressive museums and galleries in the region. The aforementioned La Piscine Museum is a converted swimming pool that now houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts, while the André Diligent Museum of Art and Industry showcases some of the most innovative and forward-thinking works in contemporary art.