The language of the Frisians
What you should know about “Frysk”
Friesland — it might bring to mind peace, nature, and water. But listen closely, and you’ll notice something else: not everyone here is speaking Dutch. In the northernmost part of the Netherlands, a language lives on that’s older than you might think: Frysk, or Frisian.
But what exactly is it? Who still speaks it? And could you, as a visitor, learn a few words yourself? This article takes you into the world of a language deeply rooted in Friesland’s identity.
What is “Frysk” exactly?
Frysk is the second official language of the Dutch province of Friesland. It belongs to the West Germanic language family — just like German, English, and Dutch — but it’s a language with its own grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Frisian is not a dialect of Dutch, but a fully independent language that dates back to the early Middle Ages.
What does Frisian sound like? - a bit like... everything
Frisian sounds both familiar and completely unique. Some words resemble Dutch, others echo Old English or Low German. Here are a few examples:
Where is Frisian spoken?
Frysk is spoken mainly in the province of Friesland, with its use being more common in rural areas than in the cities. Around 400,000 people actively speak it, and over 50% of Friesland’s population understands it. It’s taught in schools and part of daily life in local media — for example, on the regional broadcaster Omrop Fryslân. Many official institutions also communicate in both Dutch and Frisian.
Where will you encounter Frisian during your holiday?
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On town signs and street names
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In museums, churches, or visitor centres
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While shopping at local markets or village shops
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In music — many local bands sing in Frisian
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In restaurants — some menus include Frisian translations
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And most of all: in conversations with locals
Most Frisians also speak Dutch, and often German or English. But if you drop a few words of Frysk into the conversation, you’re almost guaranteed to get a smile.
Why is Frisian important?
Language is identity — and in Friesland, that couldn’t be more true. Frysk is a symbol of independence, history, and cultural pride. It’s preserved, passed on, and actively lived. In a world where many languages are disappearing, it’s something special to visit a region where the local language is still seen, spoken, and celebrated.
Whether you’re a curious listener or a brave language explorer, when you visit Friesland you’ll encounter a language that is both ancient and alive. And if you say wolkom instead of welcome, you’re saying: I see you. I hear you. I’m here.