Welsh National Anthem

The national anthem of Wales is named “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau,” which means “Old Land of My Fathers.” The lyrics for this anthem was written by Evan James in 1856, while the music was written by his son James James in the same year. The song began to grow in popularity just a few years after it was written following the Llangollen festival of 1858 and a performance by soloist Robert Rees in 1874. Although it has been used as a national anthem, it has not been established the official anthem by law. Since the early 1900s, the anthem was sung at rugby games and other sporting events, as well as at official governmental ceremonies.

The song has a theme that revolves around patriotism and unity. Many features and descriptions of beauty of the land are found throughout the lyrics, as well as how these things and freedom will be defended against enemies.