One of the Last Regional Languages Still in Use
The Alsatian dialect is used throughout the whole of Alsace as well is in part of the Moselle area. It is one of the most widely spoken regional languages in France. It is also a key aspect of the region's identity, the result of Alsace's turbulent history.
French became compulsory after the liberation. Unfortunately, the transmission of the Alsatian language from one generation to another is in constant decline, particularly in urban areas.
Although originally derived from Alemannic, the Alsatian dialect is clearly distinct from German; it has absorbed a number of French words. Although spoken in a relatively limited area, the Alsatian dialect varies from place to place.