Other Languages of Spain - Catalan, Basque, Galician

Catalan

Spoken throughout Valencia and Catalonia as well as in parts of Southern France, Catalan is the second most widely spoken language across Spain. It is recognised as the only official language of Andorra and is a co-official language in Catalonia, Valencia and the Balearic Islands. Although Castilian and Catalan resemble each other slightly on paper, when spoken they are highly distinguishable, and in many parts of Catalonia, Barcelona included Catalan is the principle language spoken in public. The language spoken in Catalonia and Valencia is also distinguishable; there are a number of significant differences in vocabulary as well as grammar.

Following repression under the Franco regime, Catalan grew and developed as a significant Spanish language and there are now many official newspapers, TV channels and radio stations which operate only in Catalan.

Basque

The Basque language, or Euskara, is a recognised language of Spain and is spoken throughout the Basque country which covers north-east Spain and south-west France and whose capital is the beautiful city of Bilbao. Across this area approximately 25% of the population speaks Basque, the majority of these living in the Spanish area of the region. Although an exceedingly difficult language to learn, it is promoted and taught in many areas of the region and there are a number of schools which are conducted solely in Basque.

Unlike Castilian and Catalan, Euskara bears no relation to other European languages derived from Latin sparking confusion as to its roots. Its word structure, syntax and vocabulary are completely different to any other language spoken in the country. Not only does this make it particularly difficult for visitors to the region but also for those who wish to learn it to any level.

Galician

The Galician language is co-official with Castilian in the north-west region of Galicia and is spoken by around 3 million people. The language plays a prominent role in bilingual schools throughout the region and is used in its three universities. Galician bears a number of resemblances to Portuguese due to its close proximity to the country and much controversy surrounds the distinguishing between the two languages.