what language did they speak in syria in 1149?

In 1149, people in Syria mostly spoke Arabic , while Aramaic/Syriac still survived in some communities, especially among Christians and in older religious contexts. Syria was linguistically mixed in the medieval period, so the exact language depended on the region, religion, and social setting.

Quick Scoop

• Everyday language: Arabic was becoming the dominant spoken language in much of Syria by that time.

• Older local language: Aramaic and its Syriac literary form were still in use in some communities.

• Other languages: Greek and Armenian could also appear in some towns or communities, but they were not the main everyday languages across Syria.

What that means

If you’re imagining a person in Damascus or Aleppo in 1149, the safest answer is Arabic. But if you mean churches, scholars, or some rural Christian communities, Syriac/Aramaic may have still been heard and read.

TL;DR

Mostly Arabic, with Aramaic/Syriac still present in some communities.