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WELCOME TO CYMRU - WALES Like our Celtic Cousins, the Irish, Scots, Bretons, Manx and Cornish, Wales (population, 3 million) is an ancient but vibrant nation, alive and kicking today. A land steeped in history, Christian revival, tradition and culture as well as breathtaking scenery, from mountain & moorland to valley and sea. The setting up of a Welsh assembly in 1999 put Wales on the map and gives new hope & aspirations as the next millennium dawns. THE WELSH LANGUAGE - CYMRAEG The Welsh language is one of the oldest languages still spoken in Europe today - poetry from the 6th century having been recorded. Despite being nearest neighbours to the most powerful and influential language in the world, English, Cymraeg has not only survived but flourishes and the last 30-50 years has seen a resurgence in use & popularity. Around 0.5 million people speak the language in Wales with many more worldwide and an increasing percentage of schoolchildren are receiving a Welsh medium education - their English language grades on a par if not excelling their non Welsh speaking counterparts. As well as countless adult classes & language centres in full swing, the future for Cymru - Wales and its language looks very positive. |
