3 Resources to Learn Latgalian for Free

About the Latgalian Language

Latgalian is a Baltic language spoken by the Latgalians, an ethnic group primarily residing in the region of Latgale in eastern Latvia. It is considered a distinct variety of the Latvian language, with its own unique features and characteristics.

There are approximately 150,000 to 200,000 speakers of Latgalian, making it a minority language within Latvia. It is primarily spoken in the Latgale region, which borders Russia and Belarus.

Historically, Latgalian emerged as a distinct linguistic variety due to the geographical isolation of the Latgale region. The local population developed their own dialect, which gradually evolved into the distinct Latgalian language.

Latgalian shares a close relationship with the Latvian language, as both are members of the Baltic language family. However, Latgalian has its own phonetic, grammatical, and lexical features that differentiate it from standard Latvian.

One interesting aspect of Latgalian is its strong connection to the cultural identity of the Latgalian people. The language is seen as a symbol of regional pride and is actively promoted by various cultural organizations and institutions.

In recent years, there has been a growing effort to standardize and develop written norms for Latgalian. The Latgalian literary tradition has been revived, with books, poetry, and other written works being published in the language.

Learning Latgalian offers a unique opportunity to delve into the cultural heritage of the Latgale region and connect with its people. It allows for a deeper understanding of the linguistic diversity within Latvia and contributes to the preservation of Latgalian as an important part of the country's cultural tapestry.