A former monastery nestled in the heart of Belle de Mai, the Couvent Levat has established itself since 2017 as an essential cultural and community hub in Marseille. With its 80 residents, artist studios, and free events, this multidisciplinary space is the beating heart of the neighborhood, bringing together artistic creation, summer festivities, and community bonds. But the site is about to turn a decisive page in its history. Starting January 1, 2027, its 17,000-square-meter grounds will become a municipal public garden, while a new call for projects will reshape the buildings’ cultural and community future. Discover a major transition for this iconic site in Marseille.
An artistic and cultural hub in the heart of Belle de Mai
Housed in a former monastery in Marseille’s 3rd arrondissement, the Couvent Levat has been transformed since 2017 into an essential hub for creativity. Spanning over 1,000 m², the artists’ community is home to some 40 studios and brings together nearly 80 residents, artisans, collectives, and cultural organizations on a daily basis. Two restored former chapels offer exclusive spaces for research and artist residencies, hosting exhibitions that are integral to the highlights of Marseille’s contemporary art scene, from the Printemps de l’Art Contemporain to Artorama.
Much more than just a workspace, Le Couvent stands out as a true hub of community life—free and accessible to all. With over 150 events a year, the site showcases the emerging arts scene through concerts, performances, and film screenings. It hosts a growing number of participatory projects, artistic workshops, and gatherings for the residents of La Belle de Mai. People come to Le Couvent to explore an exhibition, try their hand at an art form, share a meal at the open-air café, stroll through the gardens, or simply chat with their neighbors.
2027: A Public Park and a New Future for the Levat Convent
The story of the Levat Convent is about to reach a major milestone. As the occupancy agreements for Juxtapoz and L’Hydre expire at the end of the year, the City of Marseille is actively preparing for what comes next. Starting January 1, 2027, the 17,000 m² garden will become a municipal public park managed directly by the city, offering neighborhood residents a new green space to enjoy every day.
To determine the future use of the buildings and courtyard, the city has issued a call for proposals to select the future operator. The goal is to open the site more broadly to the public, focusing on themes such as nature in the city, community building, and environmental issues, while preserving its artistic spirit. The City has also set key conditions: maintaining artist studios at affordable rates, as well as reserving time slots in the large halls for neighborhood associations and community facilities. A new chapter is beginning to foster greater dialogue than ever before between contemporary art, biodiversity, and community life.
