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Mirandese

Nestled in the northeastern region of Portugal, the Terra de Miranda encompasses the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Vimioso, and Mogadouro. This area is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dances, and festivals that reflect a unique blend of Iberian influences. The region’s isolation has allowed it to preserve distinct customs and linguistic traits over the centuries. Agriculture and pastoralism remain central to the local economy, with communities maintaining a strong connection to the land. The Douro River, which forms part of the border with Spain, has historically facilitated cultural exchange while also delineating linguistic boundaries. Efforts to promote and preserve the region’s unique identity have led to increased recognition of its cultural and linguistic significance. Today, Terra de Miranda stands as a testament to the resilience of minority cultures within the broader Portuguese context. Its commitment to cultural preservation continues to inspire initiatives aimed at sustaining its linguistic and cultural heritage.

The Mirandese language

Mirandese (lhéngua mirandesa) is a Romance language belonging to the Astur-Leonese subgroup, closely related to Asturian and Leonese. It evolved from the Latin spoken in the Iberian Peninsula and has been distinct since at least the 12th century. Mirandese is characterized by unique phonological, morphological, and syntactic features that set it apart from Portuguese, despite geographical proximity. The language retains certain archaic elements, such as the preservation of the Latin initial /f/, which has shifted in Portuguese. In 1999, Mirandese was officially recognized by the Portuguese government, granting it co-official status in the municipalities where it is spoken. Today, approximately 10,000 people speak Mirandese, with efforts underway to revitalize its use through education and cultural initiatives. The language is taught in local schools, and literature in Mirandese has seen a resurgence, contributing to its preservation and growth. Despite challenges, Mirandese remains a vibrant symbol of regional identity and cultural pride.

Asterix in Mirandese

The beloved comic series Asterix has been translated into Mirandese, bringing the adventures of the indomitable Gaul to readers in Terra de Miranda. The translations were undertaken by Amadeu Ferreira, a prominent advocate for the Mirandese language and culture. Published by Edições ASA, a Portuguese publishing house based in Porto and Lisbon, these editions aim to promote linguistic diversity and cultural preservation. The Mirandese editions include:

  1. Asterix, L Goulés (2005)
  2. L Galaton (2007)
  3. L papiro de César (2015)
  4. Asterix an Eitália (2017)
  5. La Filha de Bercingetorix (2019)
  6. Asterix il alcaforron (2021)
  7. La spadanha branca (2023)

These translations are notable for their faithful adaptation of the original humor and wordplay into Mirandese, preserving the essence of the series while making it accessible to local readers. The publication of Asterix in Mirandese not only enriches the linguistic landscape of Portugal but also serves as a valuable resource for language preservation efforts.