L-INNU MALTI

Lil din l-art ħelwa, l-Omm li tatna isimha,

ħares, Mulej, kif dejjem Int ħarist:

Ftakar li lilha bl-oħla dawl libbist.

Agħti, kbir Alla, id-dehen lil min jaħkimha,

Rodd il-ħniena lis-sid, saħħa 'l-ħaddiem:

Seddaq il-għaqda fil-Maltin u s-sliem.

Historical Background

In 1922-23, Dr A.V. Laferla, Director of Primary Schools, obtained possession of a piece of music composed by Dr Robert Samut. He handed it to Dun Karm Psaila, a well-known priest and poet, to write the lyrics for it as a school hymn. As Dun Karm began writing, he suddenly conceived the idea of writing a hymn in the form of a prayer to the Almighty.

Dun Karm, who was later to become Malta's National Poet, wanted to bridge the gap existing between the political parties and to unite all with the strong ties of religion and patriotism. L-Innu Malti was first played on the 3rd February 1923. In 1945 it was declared to be the official Anthem of Malta.

English Translation of the Maltese National Anthem:

This Motherland so dear whose name we bear!

Guard her, O Lord, as ever Thou hast guarded!

Keep her in mind, whom Thou hast made so fair!

May he who rules, for wisdom be regarded!

In master mercy, strength in man increase!

Confirm us all, in unity and peace!

Click here to download the National Anthem MP3 (1MB)