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Architecture · Marselha, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Cité radieuse
Residential building by Le Corbusier, built from 1947 to 1952, which put into practice the idea of a "vertical village" with internal streets, shops, a hotel and a roof terrace. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2016 and remains inhabited.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cité radieuse
The Unité d'habitation de Marselha, called Cité radieuse, was built between 1947 and 1952 by Le Corbusier on Boulevard Michelet, in the 8th district. It is a large concrete block on pilotis, with 337 apartments of 23 different types, almost all arranged over two floors.
The idea was a "vertical village": the building has internal streets, one of them with small shops, a hotel with a restaurant and, at the top, a rooftop with a school, a running track and concrete sculptures, with views over the sea and the mountains.
In 2016 UNESCO included the Cité radieuse on the World Heritage List, together with 16 other works by Le Corbusier, for its importance to modern architecture. The people of Marseille nicknamed it "Maison du fada" (the madman’s house).
The building is inhabited, so visits are limited: the common areas, the shopping street and the rooftop can be seen, and the interior of an apartment only on a guided tour with reservation. Check conditions before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One hour; the guided tour about an hour and a half.
Best time
During the day, preferably with a booked guided tour. The terrace has the best light in the late afternoon, when it is open.
How to get there
Bus along Boulevard Michelet from the Rond-Point du Prado metro station (line 2). On foot from the station, about 20 minutes.
Tip
It's a residential building: respect the residents and the closed areas. Guided visits are usually organized by the Marselha tourist office, with limited places.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cité radieuse
Can you enter the Cité radieuse?
Common areas and the shopping street are usually accessible. To see an apartment you need a guided tour with reservation. Check before you go.
Why is the Cité radieuse a World Heritage Site?
It is part of a group of 17 works by Le Corbusier recognized by UNESCO in 2016 for their importance to modern architecture.
Is it near the Stade Vélodrome?
Yes, both are in the south of the city, on the same axis of Boulevard Michelet.