Language in Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, has two official languages, Catalan and Spanish, both coming from Latin but quite different from each other. Catalan is more commonly spoken but everyone can understand and speak Spanish. Spanish pronunciation is easier for foreigners as usually you pronounce the words as written. But Catalan language is more difficult, and it sounds more similar to French. But as a rule in the most tourist places you'll be able to speak in English, French or, maybe, even German.

About 7 million people speak Catalan language. During your stay in Barcelona, you will get a chance to hear and see this colorful language. In Barcelona public facilities, many street signs, landmarks are marked in both languages. Sometimes in some neighborhoods of Barcelona you won't find menu in Spanish, only in Catalan. However, almost all Catalonians speaks at least both languages fluently, and usually speak a third or fourth languages as well.

The Catalan language originates from the 10th and 11th centuries, and in official documents it appeared in the second half of the 12th century. In the late 13th and the mid 14th centuries Catalan language was used in such literary works as the Book of Deeds (also known as the Chronicle of James I) and the Chronicle of Peter the Ceremonious. This was a period of great expansion for Catalan language. Catalan language spread around the Mediterranean, not only in the Iberian Peninsula. In 14th century, Catalan language was one of the most widespread languages.

Unfortunately in early 20th century Spain had civil war and the coming to power of Franco that stopped Catalan progress. Region of Catalonia was suppressed and during fifties, the use of Catalan language was even prohibited and punishable by law. However in the sixties, such harsh restrictions were gradually loosened. People began to use Catalan language more open fill. Then in 1975, Franco died and the King Juan Carlos was crowned who led Spain back into democracy. The region of Catalonia got autonomy statute again, and the Catalan language was declared official.