All 21 Spanish-Speaking Countries in the World: Complete Guide

21 Spanish-Speaking Countries in World

Spanish, a language of profound beauty and rich history, is spoken by over 500 million people worldwide. It’s the second most spoken language globally, but it’s more than just words—it’s a gateway to a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Let’s embark on an inspiring journey through the mesmerizing world of all 21 Spanish-speaking countries in the world.

Did you know that Spanish is the official language in 21 countries, including Spain and most of Latin America? With decades of migration, Spanish speakers in the US have increased.

Over 30 million people in the US, aged five and up, speak Spanish at home—that’s more than 10% of the entire population!

But where exactly is Spanish spoken as an official language? Let’s explore all 21 Spanish-speaking countries in the world. But before that, let’s understand where the Spanish language originated.

Spanish began on the Iberian Peninsula, the southwest corner of Europe that is home to Spain and Portugal. The dialect of Spanish that first evolved in Spain is called Castilian, and it developed from Vulgar Latin mixed with Arabic from the Moors who once conquered parts of the region.

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List of 21 Spanish Speaking-Countries in The World

As previously noted, Spanish is the official or national language of twenty-one sovereign countries. Spanish is the most widely spoken language in these 21 nations, is taught in schools, and is the primary language for official government correspondence. The nations with at least 5 million native Spanish speakers and where Spanish is the official language are all listed below.

1. Mexico (113 million native speakers)

2. Colombia (47 million native speakers)

3. Spain (40 million native speakers)

4. Venezuela (30 million native speakers)

5. Peru (26 million native speakers)

6. Chile (18 million native speakers)

7. Ecuador (14 million native speakers)

8. Cuba (11 million native speakers)

9. Guatemala (10 million native speakers)

10. Dominican Republic (9 million native speakers)

11. Honduras (8 million native speakers)

12. Bolivia (6 million native speakers)

13. El Salvador (6 million native speakers)

14. Nicaragua (5.1 million native speakers)

15. Costa Rica (5 million native speakers)

16. Panama (2.5 million native speakers)

17. Paraguay

18. Uruguay

19. Equatorial Guinea

20. Argentina

21. Puerto Rico

Spanish in Non-Official Language Regions

Due to historical and cultural influences, Spanish is also spoken in several countries and regions. These places include:

United States: Spanish thrives in areas with significant Hispanic populations, such as Texas, Florida, and California, where it’s widely spoken and forms an integral part of daily life.

Philippines: Although not an official language in the Philippines, Spanish has left a lasting impact on the Filipino language. It has enriched its vocabulary with words like ‘mesa’ (table) and ‘cuchara’ (spoon), and cultural expressions like ‘fiesta’ (festival) and ‘adios’ (goodbye).

Western Sahara and Equatorial Guinea: Due to their colonial histories, Spanish remains spoken today in Western Sahara and Equatorial Guinea. In these regions, Spanish has blended with local languages and cultures, creating unique linguistic landscapes where you might hear a mix of Spanish and indigenous languages in daily conversations.

These all 21 Spanish-speaking countries are diverse and exciting places, each bringing its essence to the language. Exploring these differences in vocabulary and accents is part of the fun of learning Spanish.

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How Spanish Spread Around the World

The Spanish language begin its journey on the Iberian Peninsula after the Roman Empire’s decline, evolving from spoken Latin. Initially, it was spoken mainly in northern and central Spain. Over time, a standardized written form emerged in Toledo and Madrid between the 13th and 16th centuries, spreading further south during the ‘Reconquista, a period of several centuries when Christian kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula gradually retook control of the land from the Moors.

Transitioning through history, Spanish colonialism during the 16th century extended the language’s reach to Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America, where it remains the primary language today. Spanish also found its way to places like the Philippines and Guam, although its usage there has diminished over time.

In the 19th century, as many Spanish colonies gained independence, Spanish was adopted as the official language to foster national unity. This era also saw significant European immigration to these regions, where newcomers were encouraged to learn Spanish for full integration.

Following the Spanish-American War, the United States gained control of Puerto Rico, where the Spanish continued to thrive. In the 20th century, waves of Puerto Rican and Mexican immigrants brought Spanish to the US mainland.

Today, Spanish is informally recognized as the United States’ second language and holds official status in New Mexico. Its presence in official documents and even in specific sectors of US politics underscores its importance.

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From the Iberian Peninsula to the Americas

Crossing the Atlantic, Spanish arrives in Latin America, a continent shaped by the Spanish language and its rich cultural heritage. The top Spanish speaking countries include:

1. Mexico

Mexico: A land of ancient pyramids, vibrant festivals, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the serene beaches of the Riviera Maya, Mexico offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. It’s one of the top and largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.

2. Argentina

Argentina: Known for its passion for tango and its vast landscapes, Argentina boasts breathtaking glaciers, majestic mountains, and the energetic spirit of Buenos Aires.

3. Colombia

Colombia: Explore vibrant cities like Medellín, discover the lost city of Ciudad Perdida, and experience the magic of the Colombian coffee region.

4. Peru

Peru: Peru offers a journey through ancient Inca ruins, including the iconic Machu Picchu, providing a glimpse into its fascinating history.

5. Chile

Chile: Chile beckons with the stunning landscapes of the Atacama Desert, the beauty of its national parks, and the vibrant nightlife of Santiago, promising an unforgettable experience.

Beyond the Americas

Spanish isn’t confined to the Americas alone—it stretches across continents, touching Equatorial Guinea in Africa, where it merges with local cultures to create a distinct blend. Spanish influences intermingle with indigenous traditions in the Philippines, forming a rich and intriguing cultural tapestry.

A Symphony of Cultures

Each Spanish-speaking country boasts a distinctive identity shaped by its historical trajectory, geographical features, and indigenous heritage. While bound by a common language, these nations resonate with diverse cultures, each contributing its unique melody to the global symphony.

Final Words

Learning Spanish is not just about mastering a language; it’s about opening the door to a world of cultural richness and personal growth.

There are countless benefits to learning Spanish, such as understanding Latin American songs and connecting with people from different backgrounds.

So, pack your bags and start your journey through all 21 Spanish-speaking countries of the world. From the ancient cities of Spain to the vibrant landscapes of Latin America, immerse yourself in these diverse countries’ languages, cultures, and captivating spirits.

Stay connected with Kochiva to delve deeper into captivating insights and intriguing facts about languages and cultures worldwide.

Whether you’re enthusiastic about languages or simply curious, Kochiva is here to guide you in experiencing the rich tapestry of Spanish-speaking countries firsthand.

Start your journey into learning Spanish today with Kochiva, and uncover the beauty of Spanish language step by step!

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