Les Chartreux district

Located in Marseille’s 4th arrondissement, the Chartreux district is known for its authentic atmosphere and friendly ambience. It has retained its traditional character, with narrow streets, old buildings and lively squares. The district is popular with locals and visitors alike for its strategic location not far from the city centre and the main roads and motorways, and for its picturesque charm. It takes its name from the Chartreux monastery that once stood on its territory. Discover an authentic district where life is good in the north of Marseille.

A history linked to the Order of the Carthusians

The Chartreux district of Marseille has a rich and ancient history. Its name is linked to the presence of a Carthusian monastery that once stood on these lands.

The church of Sainte Marie Madeleine des Chartreux, located on Place Edmond Audran, was once the chapel of the Chartreux monastery. The first stone of the building was laid in 1633. The church was built at the end of the 17th century. In 1789, during the Revolution, monastic vows were banned, religious orders were abolished and their property confiscated. The Carthusian Order was dissolved and the entire monastery was sold off. Only the church was saved from destruction. In 1803, the Chartreux church became the parish church of Sainte Marie Madeleine des Chartreux.

A lively district, where life is good

The district is popular for its quality of life and sporting events. To the north of Les Chartreux, the Dôme de Marseille is the city’s flagship venue, hosting a prestigious programme of cultural, sporting and artistic events. With a capacity of 8,500, the Dôme is one of the largest venues in the region. Its vast central stage, top-quality acoustics and modern technical equipment make it a popular venue for artists and spectators alike. Numerous national and international groups and artists such as Oasis, Sting, Texas and Rihanna have performed here, and the Dôme regularly hosts concerts ranging from pop and rock music to dance shows, musicals, sporting events and trade fairs.

Just a few metres from the Dôme, the Hôtel du Département houses the headquarters of the Bouches du Rhône Departmental Council. This futuristic building designed by architect William Alsop, nicknamed the ‘Vaisseau Bleu’ (the blue ship), is open to the city: the public is welcomed here for events that highlight the values of inclusion, regional know-how and local economic dynamism.

On a day-to-day basis, the district offers a variety of local shops, cafés, restaurants and small markets, where residents can find fresh, local produce. A traditional and charming neighbourhood. Les Chartreux offers a friendly atmosphere and close proximity to the city centre, appealing to people looking for a privileged living environment in the heart of Marseille’s lively city centre.

How do I get to Les Chartreux district?

The district is served by public transport:

Metro line M1: Chartreux and Saint-Just stations;
Bus lines 6 and 67: Roche Albe, Les Chartreux Metro, Duparc Montolivet, Roux Saint Bruno, Roux Esplanade, Montolivet Roux stops;
Bus lines 42 and 42T: Les Chartreux, St Just Achard, St Just Ivaldi, Chartreux Pierre Roche stops;
Bus Route 72: St Just Hôtel du Département, Maréchal Juin, Métro Chartreux and Duparc Montolivet stops;
Bus line 81: St Just Metro stop.

There are also self-service electric bike hire stations in the Chartreux district.

Travelling by car? You can easily reach the A7 motorway by car, via the Avenue Alexandre Flemming and the Plombières viaduct.

Places to discover