National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇧🇬 Bulgaria

The national anthem of Bulgaria is called: « Mila Rodino ».

Continent: Europe

Bordering Countries:
🇬🇷 Greece
🇲🇰 North Macedonia
🇷🇴 Romania
🇷🇸 Serbia
🇹🇷 Turkey

History of « Mila Rodino »

« Mila Rodino » (Dear Motherland) is the national anthem of Bulgaria. The anthem reflects the country’s rich history, cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1885: The lyrics of « Mila Rodino » were written by Tsvetan Radoslavov, a Bulgarian teacher and patriot, during the Serbo-Bulgarian War. The music was also composed by Radoslavov.
  • 1964: « Mila Rodino » was officially adopted as the national anthem of Bulgaria, replacing the previous anthem « Balgariyo mila, zemya na geroi. »
  • 1990: Following the fall of the communist regime, the anthem was retained with slight modifications to the lyrics to better reflect the new democratic era.

Anecdotes

  • Patriotic Origins: Tsvetan Radoslavov wrote the anthem while marching to the front during the Serbo-Bulgarian War. His deep love for his country and its natural beauty inspired the lyrics.
  • Multiple Anthems: Before « Mila Rodino » was adopted, Bulgaria had several different national anthems. The choice of « Mila Rodino » was seen as a unifying symbol for the nation.
  • Cultural Significance: « Mila Rodino » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Bulgarian people and celebrating their heritage.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Bulgarian

Горда Стара планина,
до ней Дунава синей,
слънце Тракия огрява,
над Пирина пламеней.

Мила Родино,
ти си земен рай,
твойта хубост, твойта прелест,
ах, те нямат край.

Паднаха борци безчет
за народа наш любим,
майко, дай ни мъжка сила
пътя им да продължим.

Мила Родино,
ти си земен рай,
твойта хубост, твойта прелест,
ах, те нямат край.

In English (translation)

Proud Balkan Mountains,
next to it the Danube sparkles,
the sun shines over Thrace,
and blazes over Pirin.

Dear Motherland,
you are heaven on earth,
your beauty, your splendor,
ah, they are boundless.

Countless fighters fell
for our beloved people,
Mother, give us manly strength
to continue their path.

Dear Motherland,
you are heaven on earth,
your beauty, your splendor,
ah, they are boundless.

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