[How many do you know?] A compilation of national anthems of the world
Have you ever felt your heart swell while listening to national anthems at World Cup or Olympic opening ceremonies? Before soccer matches, it’s hard not to be captivated by the sight of players linking arms and singing together.
There are over 200 countries and regions in the world, each with a national anthem that reflects its own history and culture.
From those known for their valiant, stirring melodies to those noted for their beautiful, memorable tunes, the variety is truly remarkable.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of the world’s most famous and popular national anthems.
See how many familiar pieces you can find!
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Asia (11–20)
As-Salam Al MalakiSakushi: Ibrahim Khafaji / Sakkyoku: Abdul Rahman Al-Khateeb

As-Salam Al Malaki was established as Saudi Arabia’s official national anthem in 1950.
When it was adopted in 1950, it had no lyrics.
King Abdulaziz, during a visit to Egypt, wanted a national anthem for his country and commissioned Egyptian composer Abdul-Rahman Al-Khaib to compose it; the piece was reportedly sent by King Farouk of Egypt.
Later, in 1984, poet Ibrahim Khafaji wrote lyrics that were adopted.
True to Islamic faith, the lyrics praise God.
O’zbekiston Respublikasining MadhiyasiSakushi: Abdulla Oripov / Sakkyoku: Mutal Burhanov

This national anthem, which gives voice to the soul of Uzbekistan, was born in December 1992 as a symbol of the newly independent nation.
The powerful lyrics by poet Abdulla Oripov and the majestic melody by composer Mutal Burkhanov blend beautifully to express the pride and hopes of the people.
The work praises the country’s rich nature, cultural heritage, and love of freedom, and embodies a wish for Uzbekistan’s radiant future.
It is frequently performed at international ceremonies and sporting events, carrying the power to unite the hearts of the Uzbek people.
Highly recommended for those interested in Uzbekistan’s history and culture, or for anyone who wants to feel the spirit of the nation through its anthem.
Jana Gana ManaSakushi: Rabindranath Tagore / Sakkyoku: Rabindranath Tagore

You sometimes hear Indian music in movies or at Indian restaurants, right? India’s national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” also has a somewhat familiar ring to it, making it relatively easy to take to compared to other countries’ anthems, don’t you think? “Jana Gana Mana” means something like “the will of the people,” and it was written and composed by the Indian thinker Rabindranath Tagore.
First presented at the National Congress session in 1911, the song was later officially adopted as the national anthem in 1950.
Qaumī TarānahSakushi: Hafeez Jullundhri / Sakkyoku: Ahmad G. Chagla

Known as Pakistan’s national anthem, “Qaumī Tarānah” (Japanese title: “Blessed Be the Sacred Land”) is a masterpiece created by Urdu poet Hafeez Jalandhari and musician Ahmad G.
Chagla.
Officially adopted as the national anthem in August 1954, it is deeply cherished by the people as a song that symbolizes Pakistan’s pride and identity.
Spanning 80 seconds, its symphonic structure employs 21 instruments and 38 musical scales, brilliantly fusing Eastern and Western musical traditions.
The lyrics bless the land and people of Pakistan and extol faith, unity, and progress, filled with a message praying for the nation’s enduring glory and prosperity.
North America (1–10)
The Star-Spangled Bannersakushi: Francis Scott Key / sakkyoku: John Stafford Smith

Written in 1814 by lawyer Francis Scott Key, The Star-Spangled Banner is a song that depicts the social conditions of the time, inspired by the sight of the Star-Spangled Banner during the War of 1812.
It is one of the world’s most famous national anthems, so many of you may already know it.
Its grand choral work resonating over a classical sound leaves a lasting impression.
It is a national anthem that teaches us to hold on to hope no matter the circumstances.
Listen to it while sensing America’s strong will, declared under the theme of “freedom.”
O CanadaSakushi: Adolphe-Basile Routhier / Sakkyoku: Calixa Lavallée

I’ve never been to Canada, but when I hear its national anthem—which feels grand and majestic—I can’t help thinking, “That’s so quintessentially Canadian!” Its title is O Canada.
The anthem was created in 1880 for the celebrations of what is now Quebec’s national holiday, with lyrics by Adolphe-Basile Routhier and music by Quebec composer Calixa Lavallée.
At that time, Canada was under British rule and had a large French-speaking population, so the original lyrics were in French.
An English version of the lyrics followed in 1906, and on July 1, 1980—Canada Day—the song was officially adopted as the national anthem.
Europe (1–10)
HimnuszNEW!Sakushi: Kölcsey Ferenc / Sakkyoku: Erkel Ferenc

Hungary’s national anthem, whose melody was composed by Ferenc Erkel—known as the father of the national opera—for a poem written in 1823 by the Romantic poet Ferenc Kölcsey.
The lyrics carry the subtitle “From the Hungarian people who lived through a stormy century,” and the piece is known not for trumpeting victory, but as a solemn prayer beseeching God’s protection and salvation.
Premiered at the National Theatre in July 1844, it was cherished as a customary anthem for many years, and was officially established as the national anthem with the constitutional amendment of 1989.
Deeply rooted in the lives of the people, it is played, for example, at the end of public broadcasts.
Please listen quietly to its austere tones, which seek mercy amid the hardships of history.



