Languages in Avignon

Avignonnais speak French in the sing-song tones of the Midi. Many of the older generation speak Provençal, the Romance language of southern France, closely related to Latin. Even those who do not, pepper their speech with Provençalisms.

In spite of the French government’s refusal to support regional languages, associations are springing up in Avignon and around to educate Avignonnais in their linguistic heritage. Avignon-born singer Guy Bonnet sings in Provençal, and popular media personality Jean-Pierre Belmon ensures that the local radio station France Vaucluse Avignon and regional television station Provençale France 3 Mediterrane produce regular programmes in Provençal.

The publication Lou Flouregian has a small readership but a greater history - born of the Felibrige movement founded by Frederic Mistral and Avignon-born Theodore Aubanel, who fought to save the Provençal heritage (see Literary Notes section). Events featuring the Provençal language and culture will take pride of place in the year 2000 celebrations.