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[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!

Europe (11–20)

Belgium

De Brabançonnesakushi: Alexandre Dechet / sakkyoku: François van Campenhout

De Brabançonne, Belgium’s national anthem—also known in Japanese as “The Song of Brabant”—is a piece that emerged as a symbol of the Belgian Revolution of 1830.

Created by Alexandre Dechet and François van Campenhout, it carries a powerful message celebrating Belgium’s freedom and unity.

Although it was originally composed to boost revolutionary morale, it has since been revised to a more moderate text and is sung in the country’s three official languages: French, Dutch, and German.

Adopted as the official national anthem in 1860, it is performed at international events such as the Olympics and the World Cup, and stands as a source of pride for the Belgian people.

Norway

Ja, vi elsker dette landetSakushi: Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson / Sakkyoku: Rikard Nordraak

Norwegian National Anthem – “Ja Vi Elsker Dette Landet” (NO/EN)
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.

Czech

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.

Ireland

Amhrán na bhFiannsakushi: Peadar Ó Cearnaigh/ sakkyoku: Liam Ó Rinn

National Anthem of Ireland – “Amhrán na bhFiann” (Irish version)
Amhrán na bhFiannsakushi: Peadar Ó Cearnaigh/ sakkyoku: Liam Ó Rinn

The Irish national anthem “Amhrán na bhFiann,” imbued with patriotism and a wish for independence and also known in Japanese as “The Soldier’s Song,” is a grand piece created by Peadar Ó Cearnaigh and Liam Ó Rinn.

Composed in English in 1907 and translated into Irish in 1923, the song became widely known following the 1916 Easter Rising.

Officially adopted as the national anthem in 1926, it powerfully expresses the determination of soldiers seeking Ireland’s independence and freedom.

Sung on international stages such as the World Cup and the Olympics, this song is perfect for those who want to experience Ireland’s history and culture.

Bulgaria

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.