El gran Carlemany facts for kids
| English: The Great Charlemagne | |
|---|---|
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| National anthem of |  Andorra |
| Lyrics | Juan Benlloch i Vivó |
| Music | Enric Marfany Bons |
| Adopted | 8 September 1921 |
"El gran Carlemany" (meaning "The Great Charlemagne") is the official national anthem of Andorra. The music was created by Enric Marfany Bons. The words were written by Joan Benlloch i Vivó.
The song tells Andorra's story from its own point of view. It became the national anthem on September 8, 1921. This date is also Andorra's National Day. The lyrics mention important parts of Andorran culture and history. This includes its connection to the Carolingian Empire.
Contents
History of Andorra's Anthem
Who Wrote the Anthem?
The music for "El Gran Carlemany" was composed by Enric Marfany Bons. He was a priest. The words were written by Juan Benlloch i Vivó. He was a very important religious leader. He served as the Bishop of Urgell. This role also made him one of the two Co-Princes of Andorra.
When Was it Adopted?
The song officially became Andorra's national anthem on September 8, 1921. It was first sung in the country's main cathedral. This date, September 8, is very special for Andorra. It is the country's National Day. It also celebrates the feast day of Our Lady of Meritxell. She is the patron saint of Andorra and is mentioned in the anthem's lyrics.
What the Lyrics Mean
Andorra's Story in Song
The words of "El Gran Carlemany" tell a short version of Andorra's history. It's like Andorra itself is speaking. The song talks about a famous legend. This legend says that Charlemagne freed the region from the Moors. This happened between 788 and 790.
The legend says that Catalan people helped Charlemagne's army. They guided his soldiers through the tough valleys. Because of this help, Charlemagne supposedly gave Andorra its independence. Its first borders were set around that time.
Charlemagne's Role
Andorra was part of something called the Marca Hispanica. This was a special "buffer zone" created by Charlemagne. It was meant to protect his empire, the Carolingian Empire. According to the legend, Charlemagne helped rebuild the country. He brought Christianity back to its people. He also helped build monasteries.
Because of these actions, Charlemagne is seen as a hero. He is often called the founder of Andorra.
A Special Connection
The anthem starts with "El gran Carlemany mon pare". This means "Great Charlemagne my father". It celebrates Andorra's special place. Andorra is seen as "the only remaining daughter of the Carolingian empire". This is because it is the only part left of the Marca Hispanica.
| Catalan original | Spanish translation | French translation | English translation |
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El gran Carlemany, mon pare, |
El gran Carlomagno, mi padre, |
Le Grand Charlemagne mon père |
The great Charlemagne, my father, |
See also
In Spanish: El gran Carlemany para niños
