National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇲🇰 North Macedonia

The national anthem of North Macedonia is called: « Denes nad Makedonija ».

Continent: Europe

Bordering Countries:
🇦🇱 Albania
🇧🇬 Bulgaria
🇬🇷 Greece
🇽🇰 Kosovo
🇷🇸 Serbia

History of « Denes nad Makedonija »

« Denes nad Makedonija » (Today Over Macedonia) is the national anthem of North Macedonia. The anthem reflects the country’s struggle for independence, its cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1941: The lyrics of « Denes nad Makedonija » were written by Vlado Maleski, a Macedonian poet and writer, during World War II.
  • 1942: The music for the anthem was composed by Todor Skalovski, a Macedonian composer and conductor.
  • 1991: Following the declaration of independence from Yugoslavia, « Denes nad Makedonija » was officially adopted as the national anthem of the Republic of Macedonia (now North Macedonia).

Anecdotes

  • Partisan Origins: The anthem was written during World War II, inspired by the Macedonian partisan movement fighting against fascist occupation. The lyrics reflect the hope and determination of the Macedonian people for freedom and independence.
  • Cultural Significance: « Denes nad Makedonija » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Macedonian people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Macedonians.
  • Name Change: In 2019, the country officially changed its name to North Macedonia following the Prespa Agreement with Greece. Despite the name change, the anthem remains a powerful symbol of national identity and pride.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Macedonian

Денес над Македонија се раѓа,
ново сонце на слободата!
Македонците се борат,
за своите правдини!

Денес над Македонија се раѓа,
ново сонце на слободата!
Македонците се борат,
за своите правдини!

Одново сега знамето се вее,
на Крушевската Република!
Гоце Делчев, Питу Гули,
Даме Груев, Сандански!

Горите Македонски шумно пеат,
нови песни, нови весници!
Македонија слободна,
слободно живее!
Македонија слободна,
слободно живее!

In English (translation)

Today over Macedonia, is being born
the new sun of liberty!
The Macedonians fight,
for their own rights!

Today over Macedonia, is being born
the new sun of liberty!
The Macedonians fight,
for their own rights!

Now once again the flag waves,
of the Krushevo Republic!
Goce Delchev, Pitu Guli,
Dame Gruev, Sandanski!

The Macedonian forests sing loudly,
new songs, new messages!
Macedonia is free,
it lives in freedom!
Macedonia is free,
it lives in freedom!

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