[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 (11–20)
Ja, vi elsker dette landetSakushi: Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson / Sakkyoku: Rikard Nordraak

The Norwegian national anthem, “Ja, vi elsker dette landet,” imbued with the spirit of Norway, was created with lyrics by poet Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson and music by composer Rikard Nordraak.
First performed on May 17, 1864, at the ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of the Norwegian Constitution, the piece praises Norway’s majestic nature and historic heroes, and voices the people’s aspirations for unity and independence.
Its simple yet dramatic melody carries a strength evocative of Norway’s mountains and seas, making it indispensable at state ceremonies and festive occasions.
Also known in Japanese as “We Love This Country,” this song is highly recommended for anyone wishing to feel Norway’s culture and pride.
Kde domov můSakushi: Josef Kajetán Tyl / Sakkyoku: František Škroup

“Where Is My Home,” a symbol of Czech patriotism, is a beloved national song born in 1834.
Created by Josef Kajetán Tyl and František Škroup, it expresses a profound affection for the Czech Republic’s beautiful nature and culture.
Originally written as a song within a play, it quickly captured the public’s heart and played a key role in strengthening Czech national consciousness.
It was adopted as the national anthem when Czechoslovakia was founded in 1918, and it remains the national anthem of the Czech Republic today.
Its gentle, lyrical melody has influenced other composers and is quoted in works by Dvořák and Strauss.
Schweizerpsalmsakushi: Leonhard Widmer / sakkyoku: Alberich Zwyssig

Known as the Swiss national anthem, the “Schweizerpsalm” is a musical work composed in 1841 by Leonhard Widmer and Alberich Zwyssig.
Its lyrics, which praise the grandeur of the Alpine nature and faith in God, are emblematic of Switzerland’s cultural identity.
It was adopted as a provisional national anthem in 1961 and officially recognized in 1981.
In Japanese, it is often known by the title “Suisu no Sanka” (Hymn of Switzerland).
Widely performed at patriotic ceremonies and international events, it is a recommended piece for those who wish to experience Switzerland’s beautiful landscapes and spiritual character.
Amhrán na bhFiannsakushi: Peadar Ó Cearnaigh/ sakkyoku: Liam Ó Rinn

Amhrán na bhFiann, Ireland’s national anthem imbued with patriotism and the desire for independence, is a grand composition by Peadar Ó Cearnaigh (Peadar Kearney) and Liam Ó Rinn, also known in Japanese as “A Soldier’s Song.” Composed in English in 1907 and translated into Irish in 1923, the song became widely known following the Easter Rising of 1916.
Officially adopted as the national anthem in 1926, it powerfully conveys the determination of soldiers seeking Ireland’s independence and freedom.
Sung on international stages such as the World Cup and the Olympics, this piece is perfect for those who wish to experience Ireland’s history and culture.
Мила Родиноsakushi: Tsvetan Radosuravofu / sakkyoku: Tsvetan Radosuravofu

Beloved as the national anthem of Bulgaria, “Mila Rodino” is a patriotic song also known in Japanese as “Beloved Homeland.” Composed in 1885 by Tsvetan Radoslavov, the piece extols Bulgaria’s beautiful nature and the pride of its people.
Its lyrics, which depict the Balkan Mountains and the Danube River, express deep love for the homeland and resonate with many Bulgarians.
Officially adopted as the national anthem in 1964, it has since been performed on international occasions such as the Olympics and the World Cup.
With a powerful melody rooted in traditional Bulgarian motifs and rhythms, it remains cherished today as a song symbolizing national unity and patriotism.
Europe (21–30)
Deșteaptă-te, române!Sakushi: Andrei Mureșanu / Sakkyoku: Gheorghe Ucenescu

Deeply rooted in Romania’s history, the national anthem “Deșteaptă-te, române!” was born during the Revolution of 1848.
With lyrics by Andrei Mureșanu and music attributed to Gheorghe Ucenescu, it is characterized by a powerful message calling for the awakening of the Romanian people.
Also known in Japanese as “Mezameyo, Rūmania-jin” (“Awaken, Romanians”), it was officially adopted as the national anthem on January 24, 1990, and has become an important piece that is always performed on Romania’s National Day and at official ceremonies.
Its lyrics, expressing patriotism and a yearning for freedom, deeply resonate with the nation, and the song is widely cherished as a symbol of Romania’s pride and unity.
Hen wlad fy nhadauSakushi: Evan James / Sakkyoku: James James

The iconic song that sings of the soul of Wales, “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.” Created by a father-and-son duo, this piece beautifully expresses Welsh pride and culture, as its Japanese title “My Fathers’ Land” suggests.
Born in 1856, it gained nationwide popularity after a performance at the Llangollen Eisteddfod in 1858.
Its lyrics, filled with love for Wales’s rich nature, history, and language, resonate deeply with listeners.
Frequently sung at sporting events and national ceremonies, it is a piece that stirs the Welsh spirit.
It’s recommended for those who want to experience Welsh culture or are seeking a stirring, grand national anthem.



