catalán

Catalán is the Spanish term for anything related to Catalonia, a cultural and historical region in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. The most common referent is the Catalan language (Català), a Romance language that evolved from Vulgar Latin. It is spoken by approximately 9 million people in Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, Valencia (where it is known as Valencian), the eastern part of Aragon, the city of Alghero in Sardinia, and the Roussillon region of France. Catalan is an official language in Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and Valencia, and it enjoys co‑official status alongside Spanish in Andorra, where it is the sole official language.

Catalan literature dates back to the 12th century, with early works such as the *Llibre dels fets* and the poetic tradition of the troubadours. The language experienced a golden age during the medieval period, declined under the centralizing policies of the Spanish monarchy, and revived in the 19th and 20th centuries through the Renaixença movement, which promoted linguistic and cultural renewal. Today, Catalan is taught in schools, used in administration, media, and daily communication, and is protected by language laws that aim to preserve its vitality.

Culturally, the term “catalán” also denotes the people of Catalonia, known for distinct traditions, cuisine, and festivals such as La Mercè and the Castells (human towers). Catalonia has a strong regional identity, expressed through its language, symbols like the senyera flag, and political aspirations ranging from increased autonomy to independence. The region’s economy is one of the most dynamic in Spain, contributing significantly to the national GDP and hosting a vibrant arts and innovation sector.