[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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Europe (1–10)
HimnuszSakushi: 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.
LofsöngurSakushi: Matthías Jochumsson / Sakkyoku: Sveinbjörn Sveinbjörnsson
This work is the national anthem of Iceland, a Nordic island nation.
The lyrics were written by poet and pastor Matthías Jochumsson, and the music was composed by Sveinbjörn Sveinbjörnsson, a pioneering professional composer.
Created to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of settlement, it premiered in August 1874 and is a piece with a long history.
It was later adopted as the official national anthem in conjunction with the Republic’s independence in 1944.
The lyrics carry a strong religious tone with a theme of prayer to God, and the song is also known for its wide vocal range and high level of difficulty.
Performed at official ceremonies and international sporting events, this work envelops listeners in a solemn atmosphere.
It is recommended for moments when you wish to find calm in silence or feel the weight of history.
God Save the Queen
The British national anthem, “God Save the Queen,” is known in Japanese as “Jōō Heika Banzai” or “Kami yo Joō o Mamoritamae.” It was adopted as the royal anthem of the British monarchy in 1745 during the reign of King George II and is regarded as the de facto national anthem.
A notable feature is that the title and lyrics change depending on whether the monarch is a queen or a king.
Strongly characterized as a royal anthem, the lyrics express praise for the sovereign and entrust prayers to them.
Ὕμνος εἰς τὴν ἘλευθερίανSakushi: Dionýsios Solomós / Sakkyoku: Nikolaos Mantzaros
Also known by the Japanese title “Hymn to Freedom,” Greece’s national anthem features a powerful marching rhythm and moving verses expressing the longing for liberty.
Poet Dionysios Solomos wrote the poem in 1823, and composer Nikolaos Mantzaros later set it to music.
Written amid the War of Independence, the poem spans 158 stanzas, giving the anthem the distinction of having the longest lyrics of any national anthem.
It has been cherished and sung with pride since being officially adopted as the national anthem in 1873.
The piece was also adopted as the national anthem of the Republic of Cyprus in 1966, making it a rare work beloved in two countries.
It is well known for being performed at the Olympic closing ceremony.
As you listen, feel the weight of history and take in its powerful message in pursuit of freedom.
La MarseillaiseClaude Joseph Rouget de Lisle
La Marseillaise resounds with a grand orchestral sound.
This piece, which conveys a strong sense of conviction and will, was composed as a marching song during the French Revolution.
It carries the hopes of French citizens who sought equality and human rights, and you can feel its straightforward message toward the social conditions of the time.
You’ll experience the rich vocal timbre often showcased in classical music and opera.
Because it centers on a historical event, it can always remind you of the origins of France.
Be sure to listen to this passionate national anthem.
