Inno e Marcia Pontificale facts for kids
The Hymn and Pontifical March (in Italian, Inno e Marcia Pontificale) is the official national anthem of the Vatican City. It was chosen as the anthem in 1950. An anthem is a special song that represents a country or a group of people.
What is the Vatican City Anthem?
The Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world. It is located inside Rome, Italy. It is the home of the Pope, who is the leader of the Catholic Church. The Hymn and Pontifical March is played during important events in the Vatican City. This includes ceremonies involving the Pope or when important visitors arrive.
The Meaning Behind the Words
The anthem has two parts: a hymn and a march. The words of the hymn praise Rome and the Pope. They talk about the Pope's role as the successor of Saint Peter, who was one of Jesus's first followers. The lyrics also speak about peace, unity, and hope.
Here is the English translation of the anthem's words:
[Hymn] O Rome immortal, city of martyrs and saints, O immortal Rome, accept our praises. Glory in the heavens to God our Lord And peace to men who love Christ!
To you we come, angelic Pastor, In you we see the gentle Redeemer. You are the holy heir of our Faith, You are the comfort and the refuge of Those who believe and fight.
Force and terror will not prevail, But truth and love will reign.
[Pontifical March] Hail, O Rome, Eternal adobe of memories; A thousand palms and a thousand altars Sing your praises.
O city of the Apostles, Mother and guide of the elect, Light of the nations, And hope of the world!
Hail, O Rome! Your light will never fade; The splendour of your beauty Disperses hatred and shame.
O city of the Apostles, Mother and guide of the elect, Light of the nations, And hope of the world!
A Brief History
The music for the Hymn and Pontifical March was composed by a French musician named Charles Gounod. He wrote the music in 1869. It was originally called the Pontifical March. For many years, this music was used as the official march for the Pope.
In 1950, Pope Pius XII decided that the Vatican City needed a new national anthem. He chose Gounod's Pontifical March to become the official anthem. New Latin words were written to go along with the music. This new version, with both the hymn and the march, became the Hymn and Pontifical March we know today.
See also
In Spanish: Inno e Marcia Pontificale para niños
