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Origin and history

The convent of the Madelonnettes of Lille, located at 39-41 rue de la Barre, was founded in 1481 by Jean de Le Cambe, dit Gantois. The latter offered a property to the city to welcome "girls of light life" wishing to repent, under the aegis of the order of the daughters of Mary Madeleine. The goal was to offer them a place of retirement to "amend their lives to the salvation of their souls." In 1532, the magistrate of Lille entrusted the management of the establishment to the sisters of the Madeleine de Saint-Omer, allowing them also to treat the sick in the city.

In 1763, the convent acquired a nearby house to lock up, at the request of the families, women and girls deemed to be "disorganized conduct". The French Revolution led to its closure. From 1802 to 1967, the premises housed the Administration des Hospices civiles de Lille. Repurchased by the Ministry of the Interior to make it a police hotel, the buildings deteriorated before being taken over by the city in the 1990s to be converted into offices and housing.

Today, the site retains remarkable remains: a 17th century building and the neoclassical façade of the old chapel. It has been a historic monument since 17 May 1974 and is served by Rihour Metro Station. Its history reflects Lille's social and religious evolution, from medieval charitable practices to modern heritage management.

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