El Salvador national anthem lyrics belong to Himno Nacional de El Salvador, the official national song of the country. The lyrics were written by Juan José Cañas, and the music was composed by Juan Aberle. The anthem was officially adopted in 1953, although it had been performed for many years before that. Its text speaks about independence, sovereignty, and the country’s decision to remain free from foreign control. Today, it is sung at schools, civic events, and national ceremonies throughout El Salvador.
About El Salvador’s National Anthem
The national anthem of El Salvador is calm in tone but firm in message. Instead of focusing only on war, it speaks about dignity, law, and the value of independence. The song reflects the idea that freedom must be protected not only on the battlefield, but also through unity, justice, and respect for the nation.
Lyrics
Himno Nacional de El Salvador
Saludemos la patria orgullosos
de hijos suyos podernos llamar;
y juremos la vida animosos,
sin descanso a su bien consagrar.
Consagrar nuestra vida a su bien,
es deber, lo repite la voz
de la historia, y nos manda también
el deber de honrarla hasta Dios.
Libertad es su dogma, es su guía,
que mil veces logró defender;
y otras tantas, de audaz tiranía
rechazar el odioso poder.
Dolorosa y sangrienta es su historia,
pero excelsa y brillante a la vez;
manantial de legítima gloria,
gran lección de espartana altivez.
No desmaya en su innata bravura,
en cada hombre hay un héroe inmortal
que sabrá mantenerse a la altura
de su antiguo valor proverbial.
Todos son abnegados y fieles
al prestigio del bélico ardor
con que siempre segaron laureles
de la paz o en el campo del honor.
Reading the Lyrics: What the Anthem Says
El Salvador’s national anthem uses clear language and measured emotion. It speaks to citizens as guardians of the country rather than passive listeners.
Opening Lines
“Saludemos la patria orgullosos de hijos suyos podernos llamar;”
The anthem begins by inviting people to greet their homeland with pride. Being a citizen is presented as an honor, not a coincidence.
“Y juremos la vida animosos, sin descanso a su bien consagrar.”
This line calls for commitment. It asks citizens to dedicate their lives to the country’s well-being.
Middle Verses
“Libertad es su dogma, es su guía,”
Freedom is described as a guiding principle. It is not temporary or negotiable.
“Dolorosa y sangrienta es su historia,”
The anthem openly admits that the country’s past includes hardship and conflict. There is no attempt to soften this reality.
The Story Behind El Salvador’s National Anthem
The origins of El Salvador’s national anthem go back to the late 19th century. The government announced a public competition to select an official anthem, and several versions were considered. The lyrics written by Juan José Cañas and the music composed by Juan Aberle stood out for their balanced tone and clear message.
Although the anthem gained popularity quickly, it was not officially adopted until 1953. Over time, it became a central part of national education, with students learning both the lyrics and their meaning in schools.
Unlike anthems written during a single dramatic event, El Salvador’s anthem reflects a longer national experience. It speaks less about one battle and more about a lasting commitment to independence, law, and collective responsibility.
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