Greeks have much to be proud about, one of which is that we wrote and produced one of the oldest hit songs in the world - the official Olympic Hymn/Anthem! The playing of the Olympic hymn is one of the highlights of the opening and closing ceremonies of each Olympiad. When the flag is trooped in at every ceremony and then is raised and/or is lowered, the world bows its head in respect for all that it represents - Unity and World Peace. Symbolism is one the strong components expressed within the Anthem since it so eloquently pays homage to the Olympic ideals that were passed on to the Greeks by their ancestors. The Hymn/Anthem was first performed during the 1896 Olympics Games held in Athens, Greece by composer Spyros Samaras (1863 - 1917 ) while the lyrics were written by legendary poet Kostis Palamas (1859 -1943) and it is performed at every single Olympiad. It has been recorded and performed in many different languages, usually as a result of the hosting of either form of the Games in various countries, however the IOC requires that the anthem be performed in either English or Greek.
Here is a translation of the lyrics according to Wikipedia:
Olympian flame immortal - Whose beacon lights our way
Emblaze our hearts with the fires of hope - On this momentous day
As now we come across the world - To share these Games of old
Let all the flags of every land - In brotherhood unfold
Sing out each nation, voices strong - Rise up in harmony
All hail our brave Olympians - With strains of victory
Olympic light burn on and on - O'er seas and mountains and plains
Unite, inspire, bring honor - To these ascending games
May valor reign victorious - Along the path of golden way
As tomorrow's new champions now come forth - Rising to the fervent spirit of the game
Let splendour pervade each noble deed - Crowned with glory and fame
And let fraternity and fellowship - Surround the soul of every nation
Oh flame, eternal in your firmament so bright - Illuminate us with your everlasting light
That grace and beauty and magnificence
Shine like the sun - Blazing above
Bestow on us your honor, truth and loveEditor's Note - As a Greek-Canadian, I still get a chill in my bones every time I hear this Hymn being performed, for I am instantly reminded of all the wonderful things this small little country gave the world.
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