Bulgaria national anthem lyrics

The Bulgaria national anthem lyrics belong to “Mila Rodino” (Dear Motherland), the official national anthem of Bulgaria. The lyrics and music were written by Tsvetan Radoslavov in 1885. The anthem focuses on love for the homeland, natural beauty, and readiness to defend freedom.

lyrics

Горда Стара планина,
до ней Дунава синей,
слънце Тракия огрява,
над Пирина пламеней.

Мила Родино,
ти си земен рай,
твойта хубост, твойта прелест,
ах, те нямат край.

Паднаха борци безчет
за народа наш любим,
майко, дай ни мъжка сила
пътя им да продължим.

English

Proud Balkan Mountains rise,
the blue Danube flows beside them,
the sun shines over Thrace,
and blazes above Pirin.

Dear motherland,
you are an earthly paradise,
your beauty, your charm,
ah, they have no end.

Countless fighters fell
for our beloved people,
mother, give us manly strength
to continue on their path.

What the Lyrics Mean

The Bulgaria national anthem lyrics begin by naming key geographic landmarks. Mountains, rivers, and regions are used to define the country itself.

Calling the homeland an “earthly paradise” expresses emotional attachment rather than political power. Beauty is central to identity.

The mention of fallen fighters acknowledges sacrifice without glorifying war. The focus is on continuity and responsibility.

The final request for strength is directed to the homeland, treated as a caring but demanding figure.

The Story Behind Bulgaria’s National Anthem

The song Mila Rodino was written in 1885 during a period of national awakening. Tsvetan Radoslavov composed it while traveling to join Bulgarian volunteers in a regional conflict.

Originally, the song existed as a patriotic march. Over time, it became widely known and associated with national pride rather than a specific event.

In 1964, Mila Rodino was officially adopted as Bulgaria’s national anthem. Earlier versions included additional verses, but only selected stanzas are used today.

The anthem avoids political slogans and instead emphasizes land, memory, and responsibility. This has helped it remain relevant across different historical periods.

Today, the anthem is performed at state ceremonies, national holidays, and international events, continuing to represent Bulgaria through shared landscape and collective memory.