Valencian language

The Valencian language is a Romance language spoken primarily in eastern and northeastern Spain, specifically in the autonomous community of Valencia, as well as in Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, Roussillon in France, Andorra, and the city of Alghero in Sardinia, Italy. It is spoken by approximately 9 million people.1

Linguistically, Valencian is considered a dialect group of Catalan. While there are minor differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and verb conjugation, these are generally mutually intelligible and not typically reflected in written form. Most linguists and the Valencian Academy of Language consider Valencian and Catalan to be different names for the same language.1

Valencian is closely related to Occitan and Spanish but is distinct from both. It shares historical roots with Catalan, with early written materials dating back to the 12th century. The language experienced a renaissance in the late 19th century and has regained prominence in eastern Spain with Catalonia's increased autonomy.1