National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇨🇴 Colombia

The national anthem of Colombia is called: « Himno Nacional de la República de Colombia ».

Continent: America

Bordering Countries:
🇧🇷 Brazil
🇪🇨 Ecuador
🇵🇦 Panama
🇵🇪 Peru
🇻🇪 Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)

History of « Himno Nacional de la República de Colombia »

« Himno Nacional de la República de Colombia » (National Anthem of the Republic of Colombia) is the national anthem of Colombia. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its struggles for independence, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1850: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Rafael Núñez, a Colombian politician, poet, and later President of Colombia.
  • 1887: The music was composed by Oreste Síndici, an Italian-born musician residing in Colombia.
  • 1920: The anthem was officially adopted as the national anthem of Colombia by Law 33 of October 28, 1920.

Anecdotes

  • Presidential Influence: Rafael Núñez, who wrote the lyrics, was a significant figure in Colombian history, serving as President of Colombia multiple times. His words for the anthem reflect the aspirations and resilience of the Colombian people.
  • Composer’s Contribution: Oreste Síndici, the composer, was an Italian musician who moved to Colombia and became deeply involved in the country’s cultural life. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant contributions to Colombian music.
  • Cultural Significance: « Himno Nacional de la República de Colombia » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Colombian people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Colombians.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Spanish

¡Oh gloria inmarcesible!
¡Oh júbilo inmortal!
En surcos de dolores
El bien germina ya.

Cesó la horrible noche,
La libertad sublime
Derrama las auroras
De su invencible luz.
La humanidad entera,
Que entre cadenas gime,
Comprende las palabras
Del que murió en la cruz.

Translated in English

Oh unfading glory!
Oh immortal joy!
In furrows of pain
Goodness now germinates.

The horrible night has ceased,
Sublime liberty
Pours the dawns
Of its invincible light.
The whole of humanity,
That groans within chains,
Understands the words
Of the one who died on the cross.

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