The 19th-century boomtown of Roubaix was the first town in the Lille area to be awarded 'Town of Art and History 'status by the Ministry of Culture in 2001 in recognition of the quality and originality of its architectural and historical heritage. Imposing industrial buildings, chimneys, belfries and back-to-backs sit alongside chic private residences. Discover the unique history of this town, which in less than a 100 years, became the textile and mail order capital of France. Roubaix Tourist Office 12, place de la liberte' T: 00 33 (0)3 20 65 31 90 E: tourism.roubaix@wanadoo.fr www.roubaixtourisme.com