Mbartëse

Mbartëse is an Indo-European language spoken in Albania. It is a minority language primarily spoken by the Arberesh people, who are Albanian immigrants or descendants of immigrants living in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria, Campania, and Apulia.

Mbartëse has evolved from the Arbëreshë dialect, a dialect of the Albanian language that has been influenced by the Italian language. Over time, mbartëse has developed distinct features and a distinctive lexicon, which reflects its geographical location and cultural exchange between the Albanian and Italian communities.

The history of mbartëse dates back to the Middle Ages, when Albanian immigrants arrived in Southern Italy. Initially, they maintained their Albanian language and culture, but over the centuries, their dialect underwent significant changes due to contact with the Italian language and culture. Despite these changes, mbartëse remains a unique and vital part of the cultural heritage of the Arberesh community.

Mbartëse is considered an endangered language, with estimates suggesting that there are only a few hundred fluent speakers remaining. Efforts are being made to document and preserve the language, which faces the threat of extinction due to the increasing use of standard Albanian and Italian languages. The study of mbartëse is significant not only for its cultural importance but also for its historical significance, providing insights into the linguistic and cultural exchange between Albania and Italy.