Burgenland Croatian facts for kids

Burgenland Croatian is a special way of speaking the Croatian language. It is like a unique version of the Chakavian dialect. People speak it mainly in Austria, but also in Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. It is considered a minority language in the Austrian state of Burgenland. This means it is spoken by a smaller group of people there.

In 2001, about 19,412 people spoke Burgenland Croatian in Austria. Many of these speakers also live in big cities like Vienna and Graz. Smaller groups of Croats in western Hungary, southwestern Slovakia, and southern Czech Republic also use this written language. They are closely connected to the Austrian Croats through history and culture.

What is Burgenland Croatian?

Burgenland Croatian is a special form of the Croatian language. It comes from the Chakavian dialect. Imagine a language having different accents or regional versions. Chakavian is one of these main versions of Croatian. Burgenland Croatian kept many old words and grammar rules. These are sometimes different from the Croatian spoken in Croatia today.

This language has its own unique sounds and words. It also has its own way of writing things down. Over time, it developed separately from other Croatian dialects. This happened because the people who spoke it lived in different areas.

Where is it Spoken?

The main place where Burgenland Croatian is spoken is the state of Burgenland in eastern Austria. This area is close to the borders of Hungary and Slovakia. It is where many Croats settled centuries ago.

You can also find speakers in nearby countries. These include parts of western Hungary and southwestern Slovakia. There are even some speakers in southern Czech Republic. These groups are often called Burgenland Croats too. They share a common history and culture.

A Bit of History

The story of Burgenland Croatian began a long time ago. In the 16th century, many Croats moved from their homeland. They settled in what is now eastern Austria and nearby areas. They were often escaping wars and conflicts in their original lands.

These Croats brought their language and traditions with them. Because they lived in new places, their language started to change. It mixed with words from German and Hungarian. But it also kept many of its original Croatian features. This is how Burgenland Croatian became its own unique language.

Connecting with Neighbors

The Burgenland Croats have always kept strong ties. They are connected to other Croats in Hungary, Slovakia, and Czechia. These groups share a similar history of migration. They also share cultural traditions.

Even though they live in different countries, they use the same written language. This helps them stay connected. It also helps them preserve their unique identity. They often have cultural events and schools that teach Burgenland Croatian.

Images for kids

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  Dialects of Burgenland Croats by J. Lisac

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  Grgur Mekinić: Dusevne peszne (Spiritual songs), is one of the first Burgenland Croatian artworks (1609).

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  A map depicting the Una River origin theory for the Burgenland Croats