“Het Wilhelmus,” the oldest national anthem in the world, is played proudly and loudly at international athletic competitions.

André Rieu – UMe | Official Website

The Netherlands’ national anthem dates back to at least 1572, making it one of the world’s oldest patriotic songs.

But ‘Het Wilhelmus’ has only been the official recognised Dutch anthem since 10 May 1932. Here’s a bit of background.

The lyrics tell of William of Orange, and his fight against the King of Spain to gain independence for the Netherlands from Spain.

Written from his perspective, the anthem follows William in his struggle to both remain loyal to the Spanish King, but also to serve God and lead his people in the fight against persecution.

The lyrics were written at the beginning of the Eighty Years’ War, or The Netherlands War of Independence. But while some believe the hymn was written by Philip of Marnix of Sint-Aldegonde, a close advisor of William of Orange, the composer of the ‘Wilhelmus’ is unknown.