The national anthem of Andorra is called: « El Gran Carlemany ».
Continent: Europe
Bordering Countries:
– 🇫🇷 France
– 🇪🇸 Spain
History of « El Gran Carlemany »
« El Gran Carlemany » (The Great Charlemagne) is the national anthem of Andorra. The anthem reflects the country’s historical ties to Charlemagne and its unique status as a co-principality.
Key Dates and People
- 1914: The lyrics of « El Gran Carlemany » were written by the Andorran priest and poet Joan Benlloch i Vivó. The music was composed by Enric Marfany Bons.
- 1921: « El Gran Carlemany » was officially adopted as the national anthem of Andorra.
Anecdotes
- Charlemagne’s Influence: The anthem pays homage to Charlemagne, who is credited with granting Andorra its independence in the 8th century. This historical connection is a source of national pride for Andorrans.
- Unique Co-Principality: Andorra is unique in that it is a co-principality, with two co-princes: the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell in Spain. The anthem reflects this unique political structure and the country’s historical ties to both France and Spain.
- Cultural Significance: « El Gran Carlemany » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and other important events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Andorran people and celebrating their heritage.
Full Lyrics
In Catalan (original)
El gran Carlemany, mon Pare,
dels alarbs em deslliurà,
i del cel vida em donà
de Meritxell, la gran Mare.
Princesa nasquí i Pubilla
entre dues nacions,
sols resto l'única filla
de l'imperi Carlemany.
Creient i lliure onze segles,
creient i lliure vull ser.
Siguin els furs mos tutors
i mos Prínceps defensors!
I mos Prínceps defensors!In English (translation)
The great Charlemagne, my father,
from the Saracens liberated me,
and from heaven he gave me life
of Meritxell, the great Mother.
I was born a princess, a maiden
neutral between two nations.
I am the only remaining daughter
of the Carolingian empire.
Believing and free for eleven centuries,
believing and free I want to be.
May the laws be my tutors
and my defenders my princes!Sources: