Historic centre of Andorra
Location and contact
In the capital city's historic centre, there's a commercial area with a special charm. Here you'll discover a maze of streets full of history lined with small establishments offering authentic, artisanal products.
La Vella, the historic Centre of Andorra, also offers a wide range of restaurants and cuisines. It's the perfect place to stop and enjoy one of the many charming terraces with views of some of the most emblematic monuments in the country.
Centuries of history in the centre of Andorra la Vella
In the historic city centre of Andorra la Vella you can find a large number of landmark buildings. The most outstanding example is Casa de la Vall, the former seat of the Consell General, one of the oldest parliaments in Europe. Its construction dates back to the 16th century, and on the main façade you’ll find Andorra’s current and former (post-14th century) coat of arms. The building was restored in 1962 and guided tours are available.
One of the city’s most notable religious buildings is the Church of Sant Esteve. It dates back to the 12th century, when the Romanesque style was at its zenith. The parts of the original structure that have survived to the present day include the semi-circular apse, with its Lombardy-style decoration, and the bell tower. It was restored in 1940 by the Modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.
Another outstanding architectural gem, built of granite and erected during the first half of the 20th century, is Casa Felipó. Built by Josep Mariné Mèlich, who was born in Escaldes, the building is eight storeys tall (including the mezzanine and ground floor) and stands out for its cosmopolitan appearance. Also of note is the old Vilanova clinic. This five-storey rectangular structure was the city’s first purpose-built hospital complex.
To see more shopping areas in the centre or in other parts of the country, click here.