Valencia

⚖️

Language Co-Officiality

Sections

1. Co-Official Languages in Valencia

Valencia is part of the autonomous community of the Valencian Community (Comunitat Valenciana), where two languages are co-official:

  • Spanish (Castellano): The national language of Spain, spoken and understood by nearly everyone in the region.
  • Valencian (Valencià): A regional language that is a variety of Catalan, recognized as a co-official language in the Valencian Community.

Both languages are protected under the Spanish Constitution (Article 3) and the Statute of Autonomy of the Valencian Community. Valencian is promoted as a key part of the region's cultural identity.

2. Cultural Significance

  • Spanish (Castellano):

    • Spanish is the primary language of communication across Spain and is used in government, business, and national media.
    • It is the default language for most immigrants and visitors, as it is widely spoken and understood.

  • Valencian (Valencià):

    • Valencian is deeply tied to the region's history, culture, and identity. It is used in local traditions, festivals (e.g., Las Fallas), and literature.
    • The language is a source of pride for many Valencians, and its use is actively encouraged by the regional government.
    • Valencian is taught in schools, used in local media, and appears on public signage alongside Spanish.

3. Practical Implications for Daily Life

Language Use in Public Spaces

  • Signage: Most public signs, street names, and official documents are bilingual (Spanish and Valencian). However, in some rural areas, Valencian may dominate.
  • Government Services: Public offices and services (e.g., town halls, healthcare centers) operate in both languages. You can request assistance in either language.
  • Education: Schools in the Valencian Community teach both languages. Some schools offer bilingual or Valencian-immersion programs.

Social Interactions

  • In urban areas like Valencia City, Spanish is more commonly spoken in daily life, especially among younger generations and immigrants.
  • In smaller towns and rural areas, Valencian is more prevalent, and locals may prefer to speak it.
  • While most Valencians are bilingual, showing an effort to learn or use Valencian is often appreciated and seen as a sign of respect for the local culture.

Employment

  • Knowledge of Valencian can be an advantage in the job market, especially for positions in public administration, education, or media.
  • Some public sector jobs require a certificate of proficiency in Valencian (see below for details).

4. Learning Valencian

Costs and Resources

  • Free Language Courses:
    • The Valencian government offers free Valencian courses for adults through the Escola Valenciana and other local organizations. These courses are often aimed at immigrants and residents who want to integrate.
    • Universities, such as the University of Valencia, also provide language courses for students and the general public.
  • Online Resources:
    • The Acadèmia Valenciana de la Llengua (AVL) provides free online resources, dictionaries, and learning materials for Valencian.
    • Apps like Duolingo and Memrise may include basic Catalan courses, which are helpful since Valencian is a variety of Catalan.
  • Private Classes:
    • Private language schools in Valencia offer courses in both Spanish and Valencian. Costs typically range from €10–€20 per hour for group classes and €20–€40 per hour for private lessons.

Certificates of Proficiency

  • The Junta Qualificadora de Coneixements de Valencià (JQCV) administers official exams to certify proficiency in Valencian. These certificates are often required for public sector jobs.
  • Exam levels follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

5. Adapting to the Linguistic Environment

For Visitors:

  • Focus on learning basic Spanish phrases, as Spanish is sufficient for most interactions in Valencia City and tourist areas.
  • Familiarize yourself with common Valencian words and phrases (e.g., "Bon dia" for "Good morning") to show respect for the local culture.

For Immigrants:

  • Consider enrolling in free or low-cost Valencian courses to better integrate into the community, especially if you plan to live in smaller towns or work in the public sector.
  • Practice using both languages in daily life. For example, use Spanish in urban areas and Valencian in rural areas or with locals who prefer it.

Local Considerations:

  • While Spanish is universally understood, making an effort to use Valencian in appropriate contexts can help build rapport with locals.
  • Be aware that some locals may have strong opinions about the use of Valencian versus Spanish. Approach the topic with sensitivity and respect.

6. Key Resources

  • Acadèmia Valenciana de la Llengua (AVL): www.avl.gva.es
    • Official body for the promotion and regulation of Valencian.
  • Escola Valenciana: www.escolavalenciana.org
    • Offers free Valencian courses and cultural activities.
  • Junta Qualificadora de Coneixements de Valencià (JQCV): www.gva.es
    • Administers Valencian proficiency exams.
  • University of Valencia Language Center: www.centreidiomes.es
    • Offers Spanish and Valencian courses for all levels.

7. Summary

Valencia’s co-official languages, Spanish and Valencian, are integral to the region’s identity and daily life. While Spanish is the dominant language in most contexts, Valencian holds significant cultural importance and is widely used in education, government, and rural areas. Visitors and immigrants are encouraged to learn basic Spanish for practical purposes and consider learning Valencian to deepen their connection with the local community. Numerous free and affordable resources are available to help newcomers adapt to the linguistic environment.

By embracing the bilingual nature of Valencia, you can navigate the region more effectively and foster meaningful connections with its people.