Ladin language originates from Latin and it is spoken by 30.000 people, mostly in Val Badia, Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, Livinallongo, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Graubunden region in Switzerland.
This language derives from the mashup of Retian and Ladin spoken by the conquerors during the Roman invasions: far from being just a dialect, Ladin is the third official language in Alto Adige region.
Much more than just a language, Ladin represents THE culture of the area, with its own specific identity which increased over the years: a number of events and venues are still in effect in the present days to protect this culture. Ladin language and culture is still taught in schools: cultural instiutions have been created and local tv and radio programs are in ladin only. It is mandatory for all official documents to be translated into Italian, German and Ladin.
More infos at : http://www.provincia.bz.it/intendenza-ladina/temi/cultura-ladina-info.asp
