CHARGEMENT...
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The Life and History of Le Rouret...
At the beginning of the last century, Le Rouret was home to some 600 souls. It was encircled by tracts of arable land where jasmine, rose, and olive trees were grown, but the people also harvested grapes from Le Haut Collet; they made hay and gathered figs to be dried. They worked hard: not a single plot of land was left unplanted, and harvests were abundant.
Little by little, the inhabitants left to work in town, in factories, in offices, or on construction sites. Modern times arrived. The population changed, houses appeared on the hillsides, and more and more children filled the seats in the schools and played in the streets.
Life gained momentum and energy, and needed more room.
Above Le Rouret is the community forest, rolling land well-populated with wondrous trees, a perfect place to walk or bike - alone, with the family, with the dog - to enjoy the fitness trails, or gaze upon the sheep-fold carefully restored by motivated youth. What sweet moments can be savoured on this magical spot, a place which also hosts a superb festival in late July, Les Soirées Musicales et Théâtrales, evenings of music and theatre in the woods.
Here also are plantations of truffle oaks, vineyards, olive trees, almond trees, aromatic plants, lavender, and saffron… this shift back to the world of farming is one of the town’s priorities, to move judiciously toward developing agritourism.
As testament to this effort, construction of a local products centre is underway. There, one shall be able to enjoy local cuisine in the new restaurant, or linger in the exhibit area, or shop at the local co-op called “Le Marché de Nos Collines,” literally “the market of our hills,” which has enjoyed success in the region for a number of years. This farmers’ group sells authentic local products that have long been pleasing the taste buds of the region’s residents and visitors.
Today, Le Rouret has 3,700 inhabitants, with 500 children in the nursery and primary schools. Each day the school cafeteria serves organic meals, as children’s well-being is a priority for the town.
A decade ago, Le Rouret was home to a secondary school of nearly 900 students. The population has become younger, community life has become richer and more diverse, with a dazzling spectrum of activities available for all.
Le Rouret is also fortunate to have an exceptional recreation committee, which works tirelessly to preserve and promote community spirit and unity through a marvellous calendar of unique events (old-fashioned Christmas market, truffle market, the summer Soirées Estivales…)
And, very soon, a carefully thought-out village centre will take shape, one based on an architectural vision of small village squares and convenient alleyways. And it when it comes to life, it will be home to businesses, arts and crafts workshops, housing, and services.
Le Rouret is Provencal at heart, and that is why so many find happiness here.
Mairie du Rouret
06650 LE ROURET
Tel. 04 93 77 20 02
Fax. 04 93 77 31 63
Website: www.mairie-lerouret.fr
E.mail : contact@mairie-lerouret.fr