“Who was Paul Ruat?” you might ask while standing before this Hommage à Paul Ruat Plaque. It’s more than just a name etched in stone. It is a story of passion. It is a story of dedication to Provençal culture and a love for the outdoors.
This Hommage à Paul Ruat Plaque commemorates a remarkable man. Paul Ruat was a bookseller, publisher, and a proud member of the Félibrige. The Félibrige was a literary society that promoted the Provençal language.
Born in Tulette in 1862, Ruat’s journey began modestly. He started as a bookseller’s apprentice in Carpentras. He later managed a small shop in Marseille before acquiring his own business in 1889. His bookstore became a hub for Provençal literature. It was located first at 22 rue de Noailles and then at 54 rue Paradis.
Ruat wasn’t content with just selling books. He founded the Société des Excursionnistes Marseillais in 1897. This organization encouraged hiking and appreciation for the Provençal landscape. Ruat published brochures detailing hiking routes. These brochures included transportation schedules and descriptions of points of interest. These guides became essential for locals and tourists alike.
In 1902, Ruat co-founded the Syndicat d’Initiative de Marseille. He also began selling postcards featuring Provençal landscapes. This was during a time when tourism was just beginning to take off.
Ruat was deeply committed to preserving Provençal language and literature. He published works by Provençal authors. These included “Li Cant dou Terraire” by Charloun Rieu. He also published “La Cuisinière provençale” by J.-B. Reboul. “Le Jardinier provençal” by E. Gueidan became reference books in their fields.
In 1898, Ruat founded the Revue de Provence. He joined the Félibrige in 1899. He even wrote his autobiography in Provençal called “Aprendissage de la vido”. Ruat later gave Provençal literature courses.
Before us, this Hommage à Paul Ruat Plaque marks a man who wore many hats. He championed the Provençal language. He was a bookseller, publisher, and founder of hiking and tourism initiatives.
Ruat’s legacy lives on through the Éditions Tacussel. This publishing house continues his work. The Excursionnistes Marseillais built a refuge in his name in the Sainte Baume mountains. This plaque reminds us of his lasting impact on Marseille and Provence. It stands as a testament to his love for the region’s culture and natural beauty.
Paul Ruat died in 1938 in Marseille. He left behind a legacy of cultural preservation and a love for the Provençal spirit. As you pass by this Hommage à Paul Ruat Plaque remember Paul Ruat. Remember his passion for Provence. Remember his dedication to its language, literature, and landscape.