Throughout history, many languages have fallen out of use, relegated to the pages of textbooks or archived in museums. Yet, despite the erosion of cultural heritage and globalization, there are still pockets of the world where these “forgotten” languages are alive and thriving. Traveling today offers an opportunity to hear and experience these linguistic gems, some of which have survived centuries of change and continue to shape the identities of their speakers. From remote villages to bustling cities, these languages echo the past while helping to preserve unique ways of life. Let’s explore some of the most fascinating forgotten languages you can still hear while traveling.
1. Basque: Europe’s Linguistic Anomaly
The Basque language, known as Euskara, is one of the most intriguing and isolated languages in Europe. Spoken by around 750,000 people primarily in the Basque Country, which spans parts of northern Spain and southwestern France, Euskara is a linguistic mystery. Unlike any other language in Europe, it is not related to the Romance or Germanic language families but is considered a language isolate, meaning it has no known connections to any other existing language. This unique characteristic has intrigued linguists for centuries, as no definitive origin for the Basque language has ever been found.
Basque is particularly noteworthy because, despite being surrounded by Spanish and French speakers, it has survived for thousands of years. For much of the 20th century, it was actively suppressed under the regimes of both Spain and France, with governments actively encouraging the use of Spanish and French instead. However, in recent decades, the language has undergone a revival, and Basque is now taught in schools and used in daily life by a new generation of speakers.
Traveling through the Basque Country today offers a rich cultural experience, as you can hear Euskara spoken in cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián, as well as in the more rural villages. In the town of Guernica, made famous by Picasso’s painting, you can still hear locals speaking the language in markets, cafés, and shops. The Basque language is not only a testament to the region’s ancient roots but also to the resilience of the Basque people in preserving their cultural identity.
While Euskara is no longer a “forgotten” language in the traditional sense, its survival against the tide of modernity and political pressures makes it a fascinating linguistic example. The language’s survival also underscores the importance of cultural preservation in a rapidly globalizing world.
2. Quechua: The Language of the Incas
Quechua is the language of the Inca Empire, which once spanned much of western South America, including present-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. Today, Quechua is still spoken by over 10 million people in the Andean highlands, making it the most widely spoken indigenous language in the Americas. However, despite its widespread use, it is often considered a “forgotten” language due to centuries of Spanish colonization and the dominance of Spanish across Latin America.
The survival of Quechua is a testament to the resilience of indigenous cultures, even in the face of colonialism, modernity, and cultural assimilation. In Peru, for example, many rural communities still speak Quechua as their first language, especially in remote areas of the Sacred Valley and the highlands surrounding Machu Picchu. Traveling to these areas allows you to hear Quechua spoken fluently by farmers, artisans, and elders. The language is deeply connected to the land, with many words and expressions directly linked to the natural environment, agricultural practices, and ancient traditions.
Quechua’s influence extends beyond its immediate speakers, as many elements of Inca culture have permeated local traditions, from textiles to architecture. In addition, travelers visiting Machu Picchu or exploring other Inca archaeological sites may hear Quechua in the form of song, prayer, or even as the language used by local guides. The connection between the language and these ancient sites adds a layer of depth and historical richness to the experience.
Despite the dominance of Spanish in urban centers like Cusco, the Quechua language remains vibrant and continues to thrive in the Andean region. The language’s survival has been aided by efforts from both local communities and government initiatives to revitalize indigenous languages, including the teaching of Quechua in schools and its use in radio programs, public signage, and television broadcasts. For any traveler visiting Peru, learning a few words of Quechua can enhance the cultural experience and help preserve this ancient language for future generations.
3. Frisian: The Language of the North Sea Coast
Frisian is another fascinating “forgotten” language that can still be heard in the northern regions of Europe, particularly in Friesland, a province in the Netherlands, and parts of Germany. While Frisian shares a close connection with English—many consider it to be the closest living relative of English—it is largely overlooked by mainstream linguistics and is often forgotten in the larger narrative of European languages. Frisian belongs to the West Germanic language family and has its roots in the ancient Frisian tribes that once inhabited the coastal regions of northern Europe.
Today, Frisian is still spoken by around half a million people, most of whom live in Friesland, where the language has official status alongside Dutch. In the picturesque cities of Leeuwarden and Harlingen, you will hear Frisian spoken in local markets, cafés, and homes. The language retains a vibrant presence in everyday life, with many signs, newspapers, and cultural events offered in Frisian. Additionally, Frisian is taught in schools, ensuring that younger generations remain connected to their linguistic heritage.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Frisian is how it preserves many archaic forms of English. For example, Frisian uses similar words to Old English, such as “fish” (in English) and “fis” (in Frisian). Traveling through Friesland offers a glimpse into the linguistic past, as you can hear traces of English’s early ancestors in the speech patterns of locals.
Frisian’s survival in a modern, globalized world has been aided by a strong sense of regional identity and pride. Despite facing challenges from Dutch and German dominance, Frisian has remained a living language, spoken by a community that deeply values its cultural heritage. As a traveler, engaging with Frisian speakers offers a chance to connect with a language that remains tied to the rhythms of the North Sea coast.
4. Breton: The Celtic Language of Brittany
Breton is one of the Celtic languages spoken in the northwest of France, particularly in the region of Brittany. While Celtic languages were once widespread across Europe, many have faded into obscurity over the centuries. However, Breton is one of the few that has survived into modern times, though it is considered endangered. The language is still spoken by around 200,000 people, primarily in rural areas and smaller towns.
Breton’s roots can be traced back to the 5th century when the language evolved from the Celtic dialects brought to Brittany by settlers from southwestern Britain. For much of its history, Breton was the dominant language in the region, but after the annexation of Brittany by France in the 16th century, the French government pursued policies of cultural assimilation. Over time, French became the language of administration, education, and business, while Breton was pushed to the margins of society.
Despite this, Breton has experienced a resurgence in recent decades, thanks in part to the efforts of language preservation groups and local cultural institutions. In Brittany today, you can still hear Breton spoken in smaller towns such as Quimper and Vannes, as well as during festivals like the Festival Interceltique in Lorient, where traditional music and dances bring the language to life. Breton is also taught in schools and is used in local media, including radio programs and newspapers.
The survival of Breton is a testament to the power of grassroots language revitalization efforts. For travelers exploring Brittany, hearing Breton spoken provides a unique cultural experience, offering a connection to a past that many thought was lost forever. From the rugged coastline of the region to the charming villages tucked away in the hills, Breton continues to echo through the land as a symbol of resistance, resilience, and regional pride.
5. Sardinian: The Ancient Language of Italy’s Island
The island of Sardinia, located in the Mediterranean Sea, has a long and rich history, and its language, Sardinian, reflects this heritage. Sardinian is one of the oldest Romance languages still spoken today, and it has preserved many features of Latin that have disappeared from other Romance languages. While it has several dialects, it remains a vital part of Sardinian culture, spoken by around 1.5 million people.
Sardinian is a language isolate within the Romance family, meaning that while it shares common roots with Latin, it has diverged significantly over time. The language was historically spoken across the entire island, but it is now largely confined to the rural areas, especially in the interior of Sardinia. In cities like Cagliari and Sassari, Sardinian is still spoken by a significant portion of the population, and there are strong efforts to preserve the language through education and media.
One of the reasons Sardinian has survived so long is its ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining a deep connection to the island’s history. Many words in Sardinian have their roots in ancient languages, such as Phoenician, Punic, and Catalan, reflecting the island’s rich cultural mosaic. Travelers to Sardinia can hear the language spoken in traditional markets, festivals, and local ceremonies. The Sardinian language has even influenced the Italian dialects spoken on the island, making it an integral part of Sardinian identity.
In recent years, Sardinian has been promoted through educational programs, literature, and even social media. While it faces challenges from the dominance of Italian, the language remains a source of pride for many Sardinians. For visitors, experiencing Sardinian firsthand offers a rare glimpse into an ancient world, where Latin’s echoes still reverberate across the Mediterranean.
The world is filled with forgotten languages that continue to thrive despite the pressures of globalization and cultural assimilation. These languages are living relics of the past, offering travelers a unique opportunity to connect with history, culture, and identity in ways that transcend mere sightseeing. From the rugged highlands of the Andes to the coastal villages of Brittany, hearing these languages spoken brings the past to life, preserving ancient traditions and providing a deeper understanding of the world’s diverse cultures. As you travel, take the time to listen to the languages of the forgotten, for they are a testament to the resilience and beauty of the human spirit.