SzékelyHungarian

Székely Hungarian refers to a distinct group of ethnic Hungarians residing in the Székely Land (Székelyföld), a historical and geographical region in Romania. The Székely people are known for their unique cultural identity, which has been shaped by their historical role as border guards and their strong sense of community. They speak a dialect of Hungarian that, while mutually intelligible with standard Hungarian, possesses some archaic features and regional vocabulary.

The Székely Land is located in the eastern part of Transylvania, a region with a diverse ethnic makeup. Historically, the Székelys enjoyed certain privileges within the Kingdom of Hungary due to their military service. Following the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, the region became part of Romania, leading to a complex relationship with the Romanian state and the majority Romanian population.

Székely Hungarian culture is characterized by rich folklore, traditional music, and crafts. Their social organization historically revolved around village communities with strong traditions of self-governance. In contemporary times, Székely Hungarians advocate for greater cultural and administrative autonomy within Romania, often expressing their identity through symbols like the Székely flag and anthem. The preservation of their language, traditions, and historical heritage is a central concern for the Székely Hungarian community.