Description :
This episode of Radio Pais is part of the European Tramontana Network, a project co-funded by the European Union that documents, preserves and promotes the oral heritage, regional languages and cultural traditions of rural and mountain communities across Europe. In this programme, the focus shifts to Provence, where the life and work of writer and broadcaster Peire Pessemesse illustrate the commitment of individuals who have devoted themselves to keeping regional languages alive.
The presenter introduces Peire Pessemesse as an important figure in the Provençal cultural revival, closely associated with both the Félibrige movement and modern Occitanism. Throughout the interview, Pessemesse recounts his career as a restaurateur, while explaining how his passion for the Provençal language led him to work extensively in radio, television, theatre and film. He recalls producing weekly radio programmes, participating in regional television broadcasts and contributing to the development of Occitan-language audiovisual productions despite limited financial resources.
Beyond his personal story, the episode highlights the essential role of cultural activism in safeguarding minority languages. Pessemesse reflects on balancing his professional life with his creative work and on the determination required to produce media in Provençal over several decades. His testimony illustrates how literature, broadcasting and the performing arts can strengthen linguistic identity and ensure that regional languages continue to be spoken, heard and transmitted to future generations.