The national anthem of the Czech Republic is titled “Kde domov můj” (“Where Is My Home”).
The lyrics were written by Josef Kajetán Tyl, and the music was composed by František Škroup. The song first appeared in 1834 and later became the official national anthem. Unlike many anthems, it focuses on the land itself rather than political power or military strength.
Lyrics
Kde domov můj
Kde domov můj, kde domov můj?
Voda hučí po lučinách,
bory šumí po skalinách,
v sadě skví se jara květ,
zemský ráj to na pohled!
A to je ta krásná země,
země česká, domov můj,
země česká, domov můj!
English
Czech National Anthem – English Translation
Where is my home, where is my home?
Water roars across the meadows,
pine woods rustle among the rocks,
spring flowers shine in the orchards,
a paradise on earth to see!
And this is that beautiful land,
the Czech land, my home,
the Czech land, my home!
Meaning
“Kde domov můj, kde domov můj?”
This opening question asks where one truly belongs. It is not about borders or politics, but about emotional connection and identity.
“Voda hučí po lučinách”
Flowing water across meadows represents life, continuity, and the natural rhythm of the land.
“Bory šumí po skalinách”
The sound of pine forests in rocky areas highlights strength, endurance, and the rugged beauty of the countryside.
“V sadě skví se jara květ”
Spring blossoms in orchards symbolize renewal, hope, and peaceful prosperity.
“Zemský ráj to na pohled!”
This line describes the land as a paradise on earth, expressing pride without exaggeration or aggression.
“A to je ta krásná země”
A simple statement identifying the land just described as something precious and worthy of love.
“Země česká, domov můj”
The closing line confirms that home is not an abstract idea—it is the Czech land itself, tied to memory, nature, and belonging.
Histori
“Kde domov můj” was originally written for a stage play titled Fidlovačka, first performed in Prague in 1834. At the time, the Czech people were living under Austrian rule, and Czech language and culture were under pressure.
The song quickly resonated with audiences because it spoke quietly but clearly about identity. It did not call for rebellion or war. Instead, it reminded people of their land, language, and shared heritage. Over time, it became associated with the Czech national revival movement.
When Czechoslovakia was formed in 1918, the song became part of the national anthem. After the peaceful split of Czechoslovakia in 1993, the Czech Republic retained “Kde domov můj” as its sole national anthem.
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