Elfdalian, a rare Viking language, is getting a revival after local politicians agreed to build a new preschool in Älvdalen, the small forest community that still uses it.
While its name might conjure up images from Game of Thrones or Lord of
the Rings, Elfdalian is a real language that is believed to date back to
Viking times and is in danger of becoming extinct.
Fewer than 60 children can currently speak Elfdalian, but politicians
in the remote town of Älvdalen in central Sweden have this week voted to
try to save it, by setting up a new preschool where it will be taught.
Pupils who begin learning the language aged six will keep it as part of
their curriculum until they turn 18.
"The decision was made yesterday that they will start to build the
preschool," Lotte Andersson, a press spokesperson for the municipality,
confirmed to The Local on Wednesday.
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