Moldova
Limba noastra
Our Language
1917
1994
Alexei Mateevici
Alexandru Cristea
🏛 Identity 🏺 Ancestors / Heritage ❤ Love of homeland |
Context
Based on a poem written by Alexei Mateevici in 1917, with music by Alexandru Cristea. Adopted as Moldova's anthem in 1994 after independence from the Soviet Union. Unlike most anthems that celebrate territory or sovereignty, Moldova's anthem uniquely celebrates the Romanian language as the core of national identity.
Lyrics
Limba noastra-i o comoara
In adincuri infundata,
Un sirag de piatra rara
Pe mosie revarsata.
Limba noastra-i foc, ce arde
Intr-un neam, ce fara veste
S-a trezit din somnul de moarte
Ca viteazul din poveste.
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • One of the only national anthems in the world dedicated to a language rather than the country itself
- • The poem was written during World War I when Mateevici was serving as a military chaplain in the Romanian army
- • The anthem replaced the Soviet-era Moldavian SSR anthem and reflects the country's cultural ties to Romania