The national anthem of Iceland is called: « Lofsöngur ».
Continent: Europe
History of « Lofsöngur »
« Lofsöngur » (Hymn) is the national anthem of Iceland. The anthem reflects the country’s deep Christian heritage and the natural beauty of its landscapes, celebrating the divine blessings bestowed upon the nation.
Key Dates and People
- 1874: The lyrics of « Lofsöngur » were written by Matthías Jochumsson, an Icelandic poet and clergyman, to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the settlement of Iceland.
- 1874: The music for the anthem was composed by Sveinbjörn Sveinbjörnsson, an Icelandic composer and musician, who was living in Scotland (🇬🇧 United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) at the time.
- 1944: « Lofsöngur » was officially adopted as the national anthem of Iceland when the country declared its independence from 🇩🇰 Denmark and became a republic.
Anecdotes
- Centennial Celebration: The anthem was originally written to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of the settlement of Iceland, which took place in 874 AD. The lyrics and music were first performed during the festivities in 1874.
- Religious Themes: The lyrics of « Lofsöngur » are deeply religious, reflecting Iceland’s Christian heritage. The anthem is a hymn of praise to God, thanking Him for His blessings and protection over the nation.
- Cultural Significance: « Lofsöngur » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Icelandic people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s solemn and reverent tone captures the spirit of the nation.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Icelandic
Ó, guð vors lands! Ó, lands vors guð!
Vér lofum þitt heilaga, heilaga nafn!
Úr sólkerfum himnanna hnýtur þér krans,
þitt heilaga nafn, ó, guð vors lands!
Þitt heilaga nafn, ó, guð vors lands!
Ó, guð vors lands! Ó, lands vors guð!
Vér lofum þitt heilaga nafn!
Vér lofum þitt heilaga, heilaga nafn!
Ó, guð vors lands! Ó, lands vors guð!
Vér lofum þitt heilaga, heilaga nafn!In English (translation)
O, God of our land! O, our land's God!
We worship Thy holy, holy name!
From the solar systems of the heavens wreathes a crown for Thee,
Thy holy name, O, God of our land!
Thy holy name, O, God of our land!
O, God of our land! O, our land's God!
We worship Thy holy name!
We worship Thy holy, holy name!
O, God of our land! O, our land's God!
We worship Thy holy, holy name!Sources: