It was 100 years ago that the national anthem of Malta was written, although it was only in 1964 that it was officially adopted when Malta obtained its Independence from the United Kingdom.

Written in the form of a prayer to God, the lyrics were the work national poet Dun Karm Psaila, on music that had been composed earlier by Robert Samut in 1922.

Records show that it was first sung publicly late in December of that year, but it was in 1941 that the government declared it as the national anthem. In 1964, it was confirmed in Malta’s new constitution as one of the symbols of the country’s identity.

On its 100th anniversary, the Malta Independent went to Valletta to ask passers-by some questions about the anthem, and see if they can sing it.

The majority said that they were aware that the national anthem’s 100th anniversary is being celebrated this year.

Although many knew that Dun Karm had written the lyrics, the same cannot be said for the composition of the music, as they struggled to figure out the composer, Robert Samut.

Those who accepted to come forward were also asked to sing part of the anthem, with all of them choosing to go for the first two verses.

Watch the video to find out more.