Andorra
El Gran Carlemany
The Great Charlemagne
1914
1914
Joan Benlloch i Vivo
Enric Marfany Bons
🏺 Ancestors / Heritage 🗽 Independence ✝ God / Faith |
Context
Written in 1914, the anthem references Charlemagne, who according to tradition granted Andorra its charter. It reflects Andorra's unique position as a tiny principality nestled between France and Spain, and pays tribute to the Virgin of Meritxell, patron saint of Andorra.
Lyrics
El gran Carlemany, mon pare,
Dels alarbs em deslliura,
I del cel vida em dona
De Meritxell, la gran Mare.
Princesa nasqui i pubilla
Entre dues nacions neutral;
Sols resto l'unica filla
De l'imperi Carolingi.
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • Andorra's anthem refers to Charlemagne as the country's founding father
- • Written in Catalan, the co-official language shared with parts of Spain
- • Describes Andorra as a neutral daughter between two nations (France and Spain)