Do People in Italy Speak Romanian? An Insight into Romanian Communities in Italy

Italy, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, is also home to a significant Romanian community. This community, which has a profound impact on the linguistic landscape of the country, is frequently the subject of interest and curiosity. In this article, we will explore the Romanian language in Italy, the linguistic influence, and the cultural presence of Romanians in this European country.

Linguistic Influence and 'Italian Disease'

Statements about Romanians in Italy often highlight a phenomenon known as the "Italian Disease," a term referring to the common practice among Italo Romanians of blending their Romanian speech with elements of Italian. This blend is not limited to individuals who have lived in Italy for extended periods but can even affect those who have only a tenuous connection to the language.

Accents and intonation can shift, and words from both languages are used in a single conversation. Even Romanian language enthusiasts who have experienced Italian culture firsthand may find their speech influenced by the native language. For example, if a Romanian speaker in their teenage years spent significant time in Italy, they might struggle to express certain words, defaulting to Italian terms that are then picked up and used in their Romanian vocabulary.

Numbers and Demographics

According to data from Statista, as of 2021, there were 1,083,771 Romanian citizens residing in Italy. This is the largest Romanian immigrant population in any single country and the largest minority group within Italy.

Between 2008 and 2020, 98,499 Romanians acquired Italian citizenship, further solidifying their integration into Italian society. While the Romanian language is not widely taught in schools in Romania, it is commonly understood. There are also Romanian speakers in Italian villages, particularly among temporary workers, who have brought the language with them from their home country.

The Fonz's Embarrassing Admonition

The popular Fonz from the TV show "Happy Days" once famously said, “When in Rome, do as the Romanians do.” This phrase reflects the cultural influence that Romanians have had on Italian society. Indeed, many Romanians in Italy do speak their native language, particularly within their own communities and in certain sectors such as the Romanian embassy staff, expatriates, and in the hospitality industry.

In Rome, for instance, many restaurant staff are Romanian. They are often seen as enthusiastic language learners, especially English, and are often caught speaking Romanian to one another when they are not dealing with Italian customers. This suggests a thriving and interconnected community where language plays a pivotal role in maintaining cultural ties and support networks.

Conclusion

The Romanian community in Italy is a vibrant and influential group, contributing not only to the economic and social fabric of the country but also to the linguistic tapestry. Whether through the use of blended languages, or the continued preservation of the Romanian language in daily life, Romanians in Italy continue to make significant contributions to the cultural mosaic.