The national anthem of Denmark is called: « Der er et yndigt land ».
Continent: Europe
Bordering Country:
– 🇩🇪 Germany
History of « Der er et yndigt land »
« Der er et yndigt land » (There is a Lovely Country) is one of the two national anthems of Denmark, the other being the royal anthem « Kong Christian stod ved højen mast. » « Der er et yndigt land » is the civil national anthem and is widely used at public events and celebrations.
Key Dates and People
- 1819: The lyrics of « Der er et yndigt land » were written by Adam Oehlenschläger, a prominent Danish poet and playwright, often considered the father of Danish romanticism.
- 1835: The music for the anthem was composed by Hans Ernst Krøyer, a Danish composer and conductor.
- 1844: The anthem was first performed publicly and quickly gained popularity as a symbol of Danish national pride.
Anecdotes
- Romanticism Influence: The anthem was written during the Danish Golden Age, a period of cultural flourishing in Denmark. Adam Oehlenschläger’s romanticist influence is evident in the anthem’s celebration of Denmark’s natural beauty and historical heritage.
- Two National Anthems: Denmark is unique in having two national anthems. « Der er et yndigt land » is used for civil purposes, while « Kong Christian stod ved højen mast » is used for royal and military occasions.
- Cultural Significance: « Der er et yndigt land » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Danish people and celebrating their heritage.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Danish
Der er et yndigt land,
det står med brede bøge
nær salten østerstrand;
det bugter sig i bakke, dal,
det hedder gamle Danmark,
og det er Frejas sal.
Der sad i fordums tid
de harniskklædte kæmper,
udhvilede fra strid;
så drog de frem til fjenders mén,
nu hvile deres bene
bag højens bautasten.
Vort gamle Danmark skal
bestå, så længe bøgen spejler
sin top i bølgen blå,
og ædle kvinder, skønne mø'r
og mænd og raske svende
bebo de danskes øer.In English (translation)
There is a lovely country,
with spreading, shady beeches
near salty eastern shore;
its hills and valleys gently fall,
its ancient name is Denmark,
and it is Freya's hall.
There in the ancient days
sat armoured Vikings resting
between their bloody frays;
then they went forth the foe to face,
now found in stone-set barrows,
their final resting place.
This land is still as fair,
the sea is blue around it,
and peace is cherished there.
Strong men and noble women still
uphold their country's honour
with faith and strength and skill.Sources: