An Italian dialect would seem to be easy to define—some would claim it's a variant of Standard Italian spoken in small towns and villages throughout Italy. The reality is a lot more complex. In fact, what's often referred to as an Italian dialect can be a distinct local language (dialect of Italy) or a regional variety (dialect of Italian).

1. Emiliano-Romagnolo

Emiliano-Romagnolo (also known as Emilian-Romagnolo) is considered a minority Italian language and is structurally separate from Standard Italian. Although commonly referred to as an Italian dialect, it does not descend from the Italian language.More »

2. Napoletano

Neapolitan (also known as Napoletano and Nnapulitano) is the language spoken in the city of Naples and the surrounding areas of the Campania region. In 2008, the regional government of Campania officially declared Neapolitan a language. The initiative was meant to protect "Nnapulitano," promote the education of the language, and preserve local culture and traditions.More »

3. Piemontese

Piemontese (also known as Piedmontese or Piemontèis), spoken in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy, is distinct enough from Standard Italian to be considered a separate Romance language. Given the geographic location of the Piemonte region, there is considerable French influence.More »

4. Sardo

Sardo (also known as Sardu, Saldu, or Sa Limba) is is the main language spoken on the island of Sardinia, Italy.More »

5. Veneto

Veneto (also known as Vèneto, Vènet), spoken mostly in the Veneto region of Italy, is considered a minority Italian language and is distinct from Standard Italian.More »