Occitan Language in Monaco

Occitan is a Romance language spoken widely in Monaco. Occitan of Monaco is said to have originated a long time back, and is widely spoken in other parts of Europe also. Most of the people in Monaco speak Occitan as their first language but with time it is losing its popularity.

Occitan language was used for poetry by many poets before the Medieval Age. In the 15th century Occitan was used as a language by commercial merchants that brought them together for commercial purposes. It is believed that some Occitan speaking people belong to the pre-historic Age. Occiatan is spoken in parts of Europe and those who understand French and German can understand Occitan also.

Till 20th century Occitan was spoken by people in southern part of Europe but it gradually lost its appeal and can be seen only in text or in street signs. Some people in rural areas still speak Occitan but it is being replaced by French language. In Monaco despite the fact that it is spoken by some people it is losing its charm and French language is taking its place instead. The writing system of Occitan is based on two norms that are 'Classical' and 'Mistralian' but linguists differ on the usage of both these. The other terms for Occitan are:

• Lenga d'Oc
• Langue d'Oc
• La Lenga Nostra
• Provencal
• Lemosin

Occitan is not only spoken in Monaco but in other regions of Europe also and these regions are:

• Occitan Valleys in Italy
• North Eastern Part of Spain
• Parts of Germany