Description #
Vala is a statically typed compiled language designed to bring modern programming features to GNOME development. It offers a syntax similar to C# while compiling to C code for native performance and seamless integration with the GNOME ecosystem.
History #
Vala was introduced by Jürg Billeter and Raffaele Sandrini in 2006 as part of the GNOME project. Its goal was to offer developers the productivity of modern languages while maintaining the performance and ABI compatibility of C. Vala compiles to C, making it compatible with GLib and other C libraries without requiring a custom runtime.
Hello World Code #
void main () {
print ("Hello, World!\n");
}How to Run #
Option 1: Online
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/compile_vala_online.php
Option 2: Local
Install Vala:
sudo apt install valac # Ubuntu/DebianCompile and run:
valac hello.vala
./helloKey Concepts #
- Syntax style: C#/Java-like
- Typing discipline: Static typing
- Execution model: Compiled to C, then compiled to native binary
- Common use cases: Linux GUI apps, GNOME tools, cross-platform native development
- Toolchain or ecosystem:
valaccompiler, GLib/GTK integration - Paradigms supported: Object-oriented, imperative
- Compilation details: Vala → C → Machine code
- Strengths or quirks: No new runtime; integrates with C libraries directly
- Libraries/frameworks: GTK, GLib, GObject-based libraries
- Community/adoption: Small but active in Linux and GNOME communities
Try It Online #
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/compile_vala_online.php
Fun Facts #
Despite its modern syntax, Vala doesn’t introduce any runtime overhead. It’s widely used in GNOME projects like elementary OS and apps like Geary, Pantheon, and Noise.
