The "National Anthem of Uruguay" is the longest national anthem in terms of duration (about five minutes). The anthem's lyrics are by Francisco Acuña de Figueroa, who was also the author of the lyrics to Paraguay's national anthem. The lyrics were officially declared National Anthem of Uruguay on July 8, 1833.
The music was composed by Francisco José Debali with the collaboration of Fernando Quijano. It was first performed on July 19, 1845. The music was officially declared the National Anthem on July 25, 1848. Ninety years later (May 20, 1938) a new decree incorporated modifications by Gerardo Grasso and Benone Calcavecchia. Only the first two verses are sung. The theme of the Anthem is supposedly taken from an Donizetti's opera, while the elaboration of this theme is truly Debali's merit.
