Click on the thumbnails below to see a larger version of the photo. Return to this page by using your browser's "Back" button.
Tucked into a rugged corner of the Pyrenees Mountains, Andorra is something of a historical anachronism, simultaneously being one of Europe's oldest and youngest countries. Control of the area was disputed between the Bishops of Urgell (Spain) and the Count of Foix (France) in the 11 and 12C, but in 1278 and 1288 agreements were signed allowing for dual sovereignty between the Spanish bishops and France. Free elections were held as early as 1419. In 1993, Andorrans passed a constitution which establishes the principality as a parliamentary and independent democracy.
Welcome to Andorra! At Pas de la Casa. |
Pas de la Casa. At this altitude in the Pyrenees (2407m), blizzards are possible even in the last week of May!
|
View of Soldeu. There is major ski resort nearby. |
Andorra la Vella. One of Europe's smallest capital cities (population 25,000), it is a curious mix of Old World conservatism and 24 hour duty free shopping malls.
|
Andorra la Vella - Church of Saint Steven. Mostly a modern reconstruction, although the apse is original and dates from the 12C.
|
Encamp is a small village north of Andorra la Vella. It boasts one of Andorra's several Romanesque churches, that of Sant Romá de les Bons, dating from the 12C. |
The town of Pal also has a fine Romanesque church - that of Sant Climent - dating from the 10C, with a 12C bell tower.
|
Although it has a relatively high population density for its small size (450sq km/150sq mi), much of Andorra consists of rugged alpine scenery scarcely altered by centuries of human occupation. This view is near the town of Pal. |
The town of La Massana lies in beautiful valley, with a ski resort in the vicinity.
|
Near La Seu d'Urgell, Spain, traditional home of the Bishop of Urgell. It lies just a few kilometers across the border from Andorra. |
|
 |
| Many picturesque towns lie in the valleys immediately surrounding Andorra. Above are two views of Bourg Madame, France. | |
Map of Andorra courtesy of Encyclopedia Britannica. |
|
