Norwegian National Anthem

A very unique fact about Norway is that it does not have an official national anthem. However, it does have a song that is used as the de facto national anthem. This song is called, “Ja, vi elsker dette landet,” or “Yes, we love this country.” This patriotic anthem was written by Bjornstjerne Bjorson, who began working on the lyrics in 1859. He did not finish the song lyrics until 1868. Meanwhile, the melody was written by his cousin Rikard Nordraak between 1863 and 1864. The song was first performed on May 17, 1864 in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the nation’s constitution. It has remained in use as the de facto national anthem ever since.

The song features a total of eight verses. However, on most occasions only the first and last two verses are sung. Many of the lyrics that are unsung talk about the history of the nation. However, the verses that are generally sung focus on the love and devotion of the Norwegian people to their country.

Yes, we love this country
as it rises forth,
rugged, weathered, over the water,
with the thousands of homes, —
love, love it and think
of our father and mother
𝄆 and the saga-night that lays
dreams upon our earth. 𝄇

Norwegian man in house and cabin,
thank your great God!
The country he wanted to protect,
although things looked dark.
All the fights fathers have fought,
and the mothers have wept,
the Lord has quietly moved
so we won our rights.

Yes, we love this country
as it rises forth,
rugged, weathered, above the sea,
with those thousand homes.
And as the fathers' struggle has raised
it from need to victory,
even we, when it is demanded,
for its peace will encamp (for defense).