Complete your trip to Andorra with a visit to some of the country’s most iconic Romanesque churches. They are the best-kept secret, as they are closed to the public for most of the year and only open in summer. From mid-June to September they offer guided tours to get a closer look at them.
Sant Joan de Caselles
This is one of the most representative Romanesque churches in Andorra. It is located at the entrance to the town of Canillo. It dates from between the 11th and 12th centuries and is of typical Romanesque construction, with a rectangular nave with a wooden roof and a Lombard bell tower. The two porticoes you will see were added in the 16th and 17th centuries. Inside there are vestiges of a Romanesque stucco majesty from the 12th century, completed by murals and an altarpiece.
It has a charm that makes it very special
Perhaps because of the construction itself or because of the location, next to the river with the mountain in the background, we don’t know! You’ll have to visit it and tell us what you liked most about this Romanesque church in Canillo.
The medieval complex of Les Bons
Next, we’ll take you to the pretty village of Les Bons in Encamp, to visit not just a Romanesque church, but a historic complex.
Start with the church of Sant Romà de les Bons, which is, of course, of Romanesque origin. What makes it unique is the construction of the rectangular nave, the reproductions of the murals of the Master of Santa Coloma and the original stone altar table. But not only this, as it is completed with the remains of a 4-storey defence tower, two dovecotes and a water tank excavated in the rock.
Impressive views
When you see the situation you will understand why this was the best lookout point, as the views cover all sides. Today it is a point of interest worth visiting, both for the heritage and the landscape.
Santa Coloma and the Columba space
It is listed as the oldest church in Andorra, as evidenced by its pre-Romanesque style construction from the 8th and 9th centuries. It also contained murals by the master of Santa Coloma, which, as in many other churches, are no longer inside, but can be seen thanks to a video-mapped recreation. The original paintings are now, after years of waiting, in the Espacio Columba, a very interesting museum located a few metres from the church.
Romanesque murals
In the 1930s they were sold and after many efforts on the part of the Andorran authorities, they managed to recover them in 2007. But due to the changes that the church has undergone, they can no longer be exhibited in their original place. So now they can be seen in the Columba space, where you can also enjoy permanent exhibitions of Romanesque art objects.
Romanesque-style monuments
Apart from the Romanesque churches in Andorra, there are also other buildings in this artistic style in a good state of conservation.
A good example is the bridge of La Margineda, not far from the church of Santa Coloma, the bridge of La Tosca in Escaldes-Engordany or the bridge of Sant Antoni de la Grella.
Visiting the churches and other Romanesque monuments is an experience that takes you back in time.
Afterwards, relax in our mountain hotel
Discovering the Romanesque churches is a fascinating experience not to be missed. What better way to continue your journey than staying in one of our rooms? We offer all the comfort and warm hospitality you need to rest and recharge your batteries.
Book now and enjoy a complete cultural and relaxing experience.
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