MAMO Cité Radieuse Rooftop
Le Corbusier's iconic 'vertical village' with a rooftop art centre offering panoramic Marseille views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
MAMO Cité Radieuse Rooftop
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Le Corbusier's iconic 'vertical village' with a rooftop art centre offering panoramic Marseille views.
"Historic unusual place with a roof open to visitors with outstanding views of Marseille."
Check Opening Hours First
Sites can close unexpectedly. Always verify MAMO's hours before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Interior
Don't just stick to the rooftop! Visiting an apartment reveals Le Corbusier's genius. :housewithgarden:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
MAMO Art Centre Rooftop
9th Floor
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Marseille from this unique sculptural rooftop.
Le Corbusier Apartment
3rd or 4th Floor
Step inside a preserved apartment to see Le Corbusier's innovative design for family living.
Architectural Marvel
Admire the 'ship-inspired' design of the Cité Radieuse, a masterpiece of modernist architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Rooftop
A Glimpse into Architectural History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The sculptural, ship-inspired rooftop of Le Corbusier's Cité Radieuse/Unite d'Habitation. 1952 [800x600]
Check Opening Hours First
Sites can close unexpectedly. Always verify MAMO's hours before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Interior
Don't just stick to the rooftop! Visiting an apartment reveals Le Corbusier's genius. :housewithgarden:
La Cité Radieuse in Marseille, France by Le Corbusier, (1952)
La Cité Radieuse in Marseille, France by Le Corbusier, (1952)
Respect Residential Areas
Remember this is a living building. Be mindful of residents and their privacy. :pray:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the different levels. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours First
Sites can close unexpectedly. Always verify MAMO's hours before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Interior
Don't just stick to the rooftop! Visiting an apartment reveals Le Corbusier's genius. :housewithgarden:
Respect Residential Areas
Remember this is a living building. Be mindful of residents and their privacy. :pray:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the different levels. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cité Radieuse for its unique architectural significance and the breathtaking views from the MAMO rooftop. The opportunity to see a preserved apartment offers a fascinating glimpse into Le Corbusier's innovative living concepts. However, some visitors have noted that the building could benefit from modernization and have experienced unexpected closures.
"Can smell it's really old apartments since 1952. Interesting that there's hotel inside the building. 3rd, 4th and 9th (roof) floors are open for visitors."
Rachel Lin
"Historic unusual building with a roof open to visitors with outstanding views of Marseille."
A L
"Interesting and Original place! We visited one of the apartments and I must say the architect thought out how it worked very well indeed! For example in the kids' bedroom there is like a chalkboard on the wall and the view from the windows is spectacular! Only thing I found disappointing is it needs a touch of modernness, only criticism."
Earth Stick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cité Radieuse is accessible by public transport. Take bus lines 21, 521, or 221 to the 'Cité Radieuse' stop. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Limited street parking may be available, but it's often challenging. Using public transport or ride-sharing is generally recommended for ease of access.
It's a significant walk from the city center, typically over an hour. Public transport is the most efficient way to reach the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access to the rooftop (MAMO) and the exhibition spaces requires a ticket. You can usually purchase tickets on-site or in advance online.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may change without notice. It's crucial to check the official MAMO website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, guided tours often include visits to a preserved apartment on the 3rd or 4th floor, offering a unique insight into Le Corbusier's design.
There is an admission fee for the MAMO rooftop, which often includes access to exhibitions. Check the official MAMO website for current pricing.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on the MAMO website. It's best to inquire directly or check their ticketing page.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially on the rooftop for the views. However, specific exhibition rules may apply, so be mindful of signage.
The entire rooftop offers fantastic vantage points. Capture the sweeping views of Marseille, the Mediterranean Sea, and the unique architectural elements of MAMO itself.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around residential buildings. It's highly unlikely to be permitted without special authorization.
Professional photo shoots or commercial filming usually require prior permission and may incur additional fees. Contact MAMO directly for inquiries.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for capturing the cityscape and the building's textures. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
MAMO often hosts temporary exhibitions and events, which may include pop-up cafes or food services. It's best to check their current offerings.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside exhibition spaces or on the rooftop. There might be designated areas for picnics outside the main visitor zones.
The surrounding neighborhoods offer various dining options, from local bistros to more upscale restaurants. Exploring the nearby areas will provide plenty of choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children are supervised closely on the rooftop due to the open nature of the space. Consider the timing of your visit to avoid peak crowds and potential meltdowns. While the building is historic, it's also a residential complex, so teaching children about respecting the privacy of residents is important.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to tour a preserved apartment to understand the functional and aesthetic considerations of Le Corbusier's designs. The rooftop, with its sculptural form and expansive views, is also a key architectural feature. Visiting MAMO adds a contemporary art layer to the experience, showcasing how the building continues to be a relevant cultural space.
📸 Photographers
Inside, the preserved apartment offers a chance to capture the essence of mid-century interior design. The raw concrete textures and the play of light and shadow throughout the building are also highly photogenic. Consider visiting during the golden hour for dramatic lighting on the exterior and cityscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Vision of Le Corbusier
Visitors can explore the MAMO Art Centre located on the rooftop, which hosts contemporary art exhibitions and events. The rooftop itself is a sculptural element, offering spectacular panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea. Beyond the MAMO, the building's 9th floor also features a communal space and a rooftop terrace that was originally intended for recreation. The building's design emphasizes communal living, with internal 'streets' and shared facilities, reflecting a utopian vision for urban housing.
One of the most fascinating aspects for visitors is the opportunity to tour a preserved apartment. These units showcase Le Corbusier's innovative approach to interior design, including features like integrated furniture, multi-functional spaces, and clever storage solutions. The apartments were designed to maximize natural light and offer impressive views, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to domestic life that still resonates today.
Experiencing MAMO: Art and Views
The panoramic views from the MAMO rooftop are a major draw. Visitors can gaze out over the bustling port of Marseille, the vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding cityscape. This elevated perspective offers a unique way to appreciate the beauty and scale of Marseille. The rooftop's distinctive design, often described as ship-like, adds to the visual appeal and provides interesting angles for photography.
When planning your visit to MAMO, it's essential to check their current exhibition schedule and opening hours, as these can change. The experience combines appreciating cutting-edge art with soaking in some of the most breathtaking vistas the city has to offer. It's a place where architectural heritage meets contemporary creativity, offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit