Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The ecomuseum of the Roudoule was born out of a citizens' initiative launched in 1963 by the Maurin brothers, who settled in Puget-Rostang, a village in decline (20 inhabitants, average age 66). Their objective was to revitalize the territory and preserve its South Alpine identity. In 1966, they founded the Association Les Amis de la Roudoule, which laid the foundations for local cultural and economic development. Twenty years later, their actions bear fruit: the village is revitalized, but Ange Maurin wants to go further in restoring the collective memory of the country.

In 1986, the ecomuseum of the Country of Roudoule was officially created in associative form, with the tasks of valorizing heritage, historical and ethnological research, and territorial animation. The museum is awarded the Musée de France label, recognizing its role in the inventory of heritage (9,000 objects, 12,000 bibliographic references, 5,000 digitized images) and its innovative approach, centred on the inhabitants and their environment. Unlike traditional museums, it is based on thematic exhibitions, discovery trails, and an experimental farm, while covering an extensive area between Mercantour, Verdon and Préalpes d'Azur.

The ecomuseum is part of a cultural area marked by the Gavot language, an Alpine Provencal dialect. Its collections reflect the daily life, trades and natural sciences (botanical, geology) of the Pays de la Roudoule. With 370 m2 of exhibitions, 480 m2 reserves and a rich documentation centre, it also serves as a centre of expertise for research and publications. His action is accompanied by a Departmental Conservator of Heritage, guaranteeing the scientific rigour of his work.

Beyond its heritage vocation, the ecomuseum plays a social and economic role. It offers conferences, travelling exhibitions, and thematic animations, while supporting local development. Its model, based on community involvement and local participation, makes it a key player in the preservation of Alpine identity in the Alpes-Maritimes.

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