Svanetian

Svanetian is a Kartvelian language spoken in the Svaneti region of Georgia. It is closely related to Georgian, the official language of Georgia, but is distinct enough to be considered a separate language. Svanetian is spoken by the Svans, an ethnic subgroup of Georgians. It is not currently an official language, and its use is declining, with many younger Svans speaking Georgian as their primary language.

There are two main dialects of Svanetian: Upper Svan (or Upper Svaneti) and Lower Svan (or Lower Svaneti). These dialects are not mutually intelligible, meaning speakers of one dialect may have difficulty understanding speakers of the other. There is no standardized written form of Svanetian, and it is primarily a spoken language. Some efforts have been made to develop a written script, often based on the Georgian alphabet, but these have not gained widespread adoption.

Svaneti is known for its unique culture and history, including its distinctive medieval towers, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Svan language is an integral part of this cultural heritage. Linguists study Svanetian to understand the evolution of the Kartvelian language family. Despite the challenges, there are ongoing efforts to preserve and revitalize the Svan language through cultural initiatives and educational programs.