Language History & Culture

If you are moving to the area you may already know a great deal or very little about Wales.  This section aims to provide you with a range of sites that will give you a brief overview of Welsh history and culture. Pob lwc a chroeso! / Best of luck and welcome!

Welsh & Local History

To find out more about Wales’ interesting history visit the following websites:

• BBC - History of Wales
• University History

Welsh Culture & Language

The Welsh Language is one of the oldest European languages. Today, it remains a vibrant community language and is also increasingly used in various aspects of daily life. As is the case throughout most of Europe, bilingualism in Wales is increasingly becoming accepted as being completely natural and normal.

Here in North West Wales, Welsh is spoken by 70% of the population and is used extensively in the public sector. The University itself is committed to treating Welsh and English on a basis of equality and operates a comprehensive Language Scheme.

Further information is available on the Moving to Wales website which has been developed by the Welsh Language Board for the benefit of those moving here to live.

In the meantime, if you would like to hear what Welsh sounds like, click here.

• The Welsh Language
• The Welsh Language Commissioner
• Welsh Government
• The National Eisteddfod of Wales

Below is a booklet developed by Gwynedd County Council, providing an introduction to the culture and language to the county within which the University is located:

Introduction to culture and language.

Learning Welsh

Below is a list of organisations who offer Welsh language courses.

• University staff who decide to learn Welsh usually follow the programmes provided by the School of Lifelong Learning who offer places free of charge to University staff.
• Canolfan Bedwyr offers Advanced Welsh Courses for Wesh speakers and fluent learners who wish to improve their written Welsh, visit the Language Improvement Unit web page at Canolfan Bedwyr
• ACEN - A web site for Welsh Learners
• BBC - Welsh Learners Site

If you wish to learn Welsh, please contact hyfforddi@bangor.ac.uk and we will pass on your details to the School of Lifelong Learning.

Getting started...

Here a few key phrases to help you on your way!