what language do they speak at the vatican

what language do they speak at the vatican

1 month ago 12
Nature

The primary languages spoken at the Vatican are Italian and Latin. Italian serves as the main working language and is used in most official documents, administrative affairs, and daily communication within Vatican City. Latin, on the other hand, holds a special status as the official language of the Holy See (the central governing body of the Catholic Church) and is used in liturgical ceremonies, official Church documents, and legal proclamations

. Additionally, other languages such as French and English are used in diplomatic contexts and for communication with the global Catholic community. The Swiss Guard uses Swiss German for commands, though guards take their oaths in their native languages, which may include German, French, Italian, or Romansh

. In summary:

  • Italian : Main working language and language of official documents in Vatican City.
  • Latin : Official language of the Holy See, used in Church liturgy, documents, and legal texts.
  • French and English : Used diplomatically and for international communication.
  • Swiss German : Used for commands in the Swiss Guard.

This multilingual environment reflects the Vatican's unique role as both a sovereign state and the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church

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