Spain is a country bursting with cultural and linguistic diversity. In addition to Spanish (also known as Castilian), which is spoken nationwide, there are five other languages officially recognized in specific regions. Here are some fun facts about them:

1. Spanish (Castilian)

• Spread: Spanish is the official language throughout Spain and is spoken by almost everyone.
• Did you know? Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world, after Mandarin Chinese!

2. Catalan

• Regions: Catalan is spoken in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.
• Did you know? Catalan shares more similarities with French and Italian than with Spanish. It was an important literary language in the Mediterranean during the Middle Ages.

3. Valencian (Valencià)

• Region: Valencian is spoken in the Valencia region.
• Did you know? Valencian is a variety of Catalan, but many people consider it a separate language due to its unique words, pronunciation, and associated culture. It is a source of great pride in Valencia.

4. Basque (Euskara)

• Regions: Basque is spoken in the Basque Country and parts of Navarre.
• Did you know? Basque is one of the oldest languages in Europe and has no proven connection to any other language in the world! It’s a true linguistic mystery.

5. Galician (Galego)

• Region: Galician is spoken in Galicia, in the northwest of Spain.
• Did you know? Galician is very similar to Portuguese, as both languages share a common medieval origin. They are still partially mutually intelligible.

6. Aranese (Aranés)

• Region: Aranese is spoken in the Val d'Aran, a small valley in the Pyrenees in Catalonia.
• Did you know? Aranese is a variant of Occitan, a language once widely spoken in southern France. Although only a few thousand people speak it, it is actively protected.

Spain: A linguistic paradise

The diversity of languages in Spain makes the country even more fascinating. Each of these languages contributes to the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you chat in Spanish, pick up a Basque word, or explore Galician poetry, you’ll gain a unique insight into the soul of Spain.

Which language would you like to learn?