April 23 marks a special date for lovers of the Spanish language around the world. Known as el Día del español, this celebration is a tribute to the linguistic and cultural richness that this language represents.
But why April 23?
This date coincides with the death of two great literary figures: Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare. It is a day dedicated not only to the Spanish language, but also to the literature that has enriched the Spanish language throughout the centuries.
Spanish in the world and the diversity of the language
Spanish is one of the most spoken and studied languages in the world. With more than 580 million native speakers, it is the second most widespread mother tongue after Mandarin Chinese. But its influence doesn’t stop there. It is estimated that around 21 million people are learning Spanish as a second language, making it the third most studied language after English and French.
From Peninsular Spanish, with different regional accents and dialects, to the varied forms of Spanish spoken in Latin America, the diversity of Spanish is fascinating with each region bringing its own nuance and richness.
Additionally, from the Philippines to the United States, Spanish is the second most spoken language.
Spanish is also a language which is constantly evolving. Over the years, it has borrowed words from other languages and coined new terms to adapt to changes in society and technology. Such metamorphosis and flexibility are part of what makes Spanish so vibrant and relevant in the contemporary world.
And a fun fact…
As it so happens, April 23 is also the holiday of the community of Castilla y León that commemorates the “Battle of Villalar”.
The Battle of Villalar de los Comuneros is a holiday that celebrates the struggle of the Castilian people against the government of King Carlos I of Spain in the 16th century. The battle took place in 1521 and was a conflict between royalist forces and commoners, who were a popular movement that rebelled against the abuses and oppression of the central government. Although they were defeated in Villalar, their resistance symbolised the fight for justice and freedom against monarchical power. The celebration of Castilla on this date commemorates this historical event and is celebrated across the region, remembering the courage and determination of those who fought for their rights and freedoms.
On el día del español we celebrate more than a language; we celebrate a bridge that unites people from different cultures and countries. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is a reminder of the importance of communication and mutual understanding. As we continue to explore and enjoy the richness of Spanish, we honour its legacy and its potential to inspire and enrich our lives.
Martina Dioletta
Translated into English from original Spanish article by Vanesa Peña Merino
