Andorra

Overview

The Principality of Andorra is a small landlocked country on the Iberian Peninsula in Pyrenees Mountains. The country has ski resorts and has a tax-haven prestige that motivates tax-free shopping.

It recorded a population of 77,006 by 2018 and covers an area of 468 km2. The capital city is Andorra la Vella. The city has boutiques, jewellers and various shopping centres. It is also the highest capital in Europe with a height of 1,023m above sea level.

The Valira River

History

It is an independent co-principality under the joint rule of Bishop of Urgell in Spain and the President of France.

The first constitution was adopted in the country in 1993 that formed new executive, legislative and judicial arms.

Food & culture

The co-principality’s culture is mainly based on the Romans way of life but also heavily influenced by the culture of the neighbouring regions.

The major crops grown in the country include tobacco, grapes and cereals.

The most popular dish is escudella which is boiled pork with vegetables.

Wildlife

Main wildlife animals here include wolves, bears, foxes, vultures, geese, wild ducks, and martens.

Festivals & events

The main festivals include Andorra international jazz festival, horizon festival, Andorra la Vella Festa major and Narciso Yepes international festival.

Things to see

Coma Pedrosa is the highest point in the co-principality where mountain climbing is common.

There are also several museums like the National Automobile Museum, Andorran model museum, Viladomat museum and Rull house museum where artefacts are displayed.

There is also the Grandvalira, a ski resort full of snow.

Interesting facts

The country’s official language is Catalan.

Majority of the population are Roman Catholics.

The country has three different education systems. Schooling is compulsory for children between 6 and 16 years where parents choose between French, Andorran and Spanish systems.

Andorra

At a glance

Before you go