Croatian national anthem ranks low in World Cup list, but it is one of world’s most peaceful
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Americans rank Croatian anthem low
The Croatian national anthem “Lijepa naša domovino” has been placed towards the lower end of a ranking of World Cup national anthems published by The New York Times’ The Athletic.
In a ranking of all 48 national anthems featured at the tournament, Croatia’s anthem was ranked 40th. It appeared just above the Netherlands and significantly below several other European entries.
At the bottom of the list was England’s anthem.
The publication described the Croatian anthem as somewhat flat in tone, noting that some players were seen singing it quietly.
The review also commented on its musical composition, stating that while it contains classical elements such as violin arrangements, it lacks intensity and atmosphere. It was awarded a score of 3/10.
The anthem’s true character is viewed differently among Croatians of course. The Croatian anthem is one of the few peaceful anthems in the world because it glorifies the beauty of the homeland, rather than calling for struggle or resistance.
Its origins date back to the 19th century. The lyrics were written in 1835 by Antun Mihanović under the title “Horvatska domovina” (Croatian Homeland).
The poem was first published in the literary magazine Danica, gaining immediate cultural significance due to its patriotic themes and imagery of Croatia’s natural beauty.
Antun Mihanović (Photo: Stjepan Kovačević/Public domain)
The melody was later composed by Josip Runjanin in the mid-19th century. It is believed to have been inspired by motifs from Gaetano Donizetti’s opera Lucia di Lammermoor, giving the anthem a classical European musical foundation.
Over time, the composition evolved from a literary work into a musical expression of national identity. It officially became the national anthem of Croatia in 1991, following the country’s independence.
The lyrics of “Lijepa naša domovino” translated into English:
Our beautiful homeland,
O so fearless and gracious,
Our fathers’ ancient glory,
May you be blessed forever.
Dear, you are our only glory,
Dear, you are our only one,
Dear, we love your plains,
Dear, we love your mountains.
Drava, Sava, keep on flowing,
Danube, do not lose your vigour,
Deep blue sea, tell the world,
That a Croat loves his homeland.
Whilst his fields are kissed by sunshine,
Whilst his oaks are whipped by wild winds,
Whilst his dear ones go to heaven,
Whilst his live heart beats.
Listen below.
