Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell: Andorra's Spiritual Heart
Discover Andorra's spiritual heart at the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell, a blend of modern architecture and ancient tradition.
Nestled in the Andorran Pyrenees, the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell is aMinor Basilica and a symbol of Andorran identity. Dedicated to the Virgin of Meritxell, the country's patron saint, it's a place of pilgrimage, art, and reflection. The basilica's modern architecture, designed by Ricardo Bofill, incorporates elements of Romanesque style and the surrounding landscape.
A brief summary to Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell
- Meritxell, AD100, AD
- +376851253
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Meritxell Memoria exhibition in the old sanctuary to learn about the history and significance of the basilica.
- Explore the nature route leading to the Meritxell Oratories and the village of Prats for scenic views.
- Attend the festival of Nostra Senyora de Meritxell on September 8th to experience Andorran traditions and celebrations.
Getting There
-
Car
From Andorra la Vella, take the CG-2 road towards Canillo. The Sanctuary of Meritxell is located just off the main road, approximately 11 minutes from the city center. Look for the roundabout with the beige stone sculpture of the Virgin and Child, and exit right up the hill to the sanctuary. Parking is available down the hill on your left; parking is free. Expect to pay around €2-€3 for fuel.
-
Public Transport
The Andorran Tourist Bus (Bus L4) operates from June to September and stops at the Sanctuary of Meritxell. Check the bus schedule for current times and ticket prices. Alternatively, take a regular interurban bus from Andorra la Vella to Canillo and get off near the Sanctuary of Meritxell. From the bus stop, it is approximately an 800-meter walk to the Sanctuary. A single fare within Zone 1 (which includes Andorra la Vella and Meritxell) is approximately €1.30.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available in Andorra la Vella and can take you directly to the Sanctuary of Meritxell. Taxi ranks are located on Meritxell Avenue. The journey takes around 11 minutes and costs approximately €30-€40. Keep in mind that night services may charge extra.
Discover more about Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
RESTAURANT BORDA L' ERA DEL ROSSELL
0.1 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Borda L'Era del Rossell, a traditional 'borda' near Santuario de Meritxell.
Roc de les bruixes
0.5 km
Uncover ancient Andorran legends at Roc de les Bruixes in Canillo, where mystical folklore meets breathtaking Pyrenean scenery.
Mirador del Toll Bullidor
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking views of a unique waterfall from a suspended observation deck in the heart of the Andorran Pyrenees. A must-see in Canillo!
La Cantina dels Racons
0.9 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine in a cozy, traditional 'borda' setting at La Cantina dels Racons in Canillo.
Creu dels set braços (Cruz de los siete brazos)
1.1 km
Discover the Creu dels Set Braços in Canillo, an iconic sculpture that reflects the rich artistic heritage of Andorra amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Ski Plaza Hotel & Wellness
1.3 km
Experience Andorran hospitality at Ski Plaza Hotel & Wellness, Canillo. Ski-in/ski-out access, spa, and family-friendly activities await!
Telecabina de Canillo
1.5 km
Experience breathtaking views of the Andorran Pyrenees with a ride on the Telecabina de Canillo. Your gateway to adventure awaits!
Hotel Bonavida
1.5 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Bonavida in Canillo, Andorra. Your perfect base for exploring the Pyrenees, offering relaxation and adventure.
Comú de Canillo
1.5 km
Explore the administrative heart of Canillo at Comú de Canillo, where culture and history merge in the stunning Pyrenean landscape.
Andorra Walking Festival
1.6 km
Discover the Andorran Pyrenees step by step at the Andorra Walking Festival. Guided hikes, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences await.
Font d'Argent Canillo
1.6 km
Experience comfort and convenience in the Andorran Pyrenees at Hotel Font d'Argent Canillo, your gateway to adventure and relaxation.
Apartamentos Turisticos Roc del Castell
1.6 km
Cozy apartments in Canillo, Andorra, offering easy access to skiing, hiking, and year-round mountain adventures in the Pyrenees.
Mirador de Canillo
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking Andorran vistas from the Mirador de Canillo. An easily accessible viewpoint offering panoramic Pyrenees mountain views.
Hotel Roc del Castell
1.7 km
Your cozy basecamp for exploring the Andorran Pyrenees, steps from Grandvalira ski slopes and Canillo's charming attractions.
Tower of the Moors
1.7 km
Explore the ancient Tower of the Moors in Encamp, Andorra, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's mysterious past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Esglèsia romànica Santa Maria de Meritxell
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Església romànica Santa Maria de Meritxell, a historic Romanesque church set amidst breathtaking Andorran landscapes.
Basilique Meritxell
0.1 km
Discover the Basilique Meritxell, a stunning shrine in Andorra that blends spirituality with breathtaking mountain views.
Église de Meritxell
0.1 km
Explore Église de Meritxell, a captivating religious destination in Andorra, blending rich culture, stunning architecture, and serene nature.
Camí del toll bullidor
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of Andorra on the Camí del Toll Bullidor, a scenic hiking trail leading to a refreshing natural pool.
Via Ferrada Canal del Grau
1.1 km
Challenge yourself on the Via Ferrada Canal del Grau in Canillo, Andorra. Experience thrilling heights and breathtaking views on this exciting 'iron path'.
Pont Tibetà - Parada d'autobús de Canillo
1.3 km
Brave the heights at Pont Tibetà in Canillo, Andorra: a breathtaking pedestrian bridge with stunning views and thrilling experiences.
Via Ferrada Roc de Quer (Directíssima)
1.4 km
Experience thrilling rock climbing at Via Ferrada Roc de Quer, where adventure meets stunning Andorran landscapes.
Mirador Roc Del Quer | Canillo
1.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Mirador Roc Del Quer, a stunning observation deck in Canillo, Andorra.
Canillo Andorra
1.4 km
Explore the stunning hiking trails of Canillo, Andorra, where breathtaking mountain views and nature await every adventurer.
Palau de Gel d’Andorra
1.4 km
Experience the excitement of ice skating and more at Palau de Gel d'Andorra, a multifaceted sports complex set against breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Església de la Santa Creu de Canillo
1.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Església de la Santa Creu de Canillo, a charming Baroque church in the heart of Andorra's stunning Pyrenees.
Via Ferrada Canal de la Mora
1.5 km
Experience the thrill of rock climbing at Via Ferrada Canal de la Mora, a breathtaking adventure in the heart of Andorra's stunning Pyrenees.
Tourism office and French Post Office
1.5 km
Explore Canillo: Your gateway to breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures in the heart of Andorra.
Macarulla: On són els bolets?
1.5 km
Explore Macarulla in Andorra, a nature lover's paradise perfect for mushroom enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking tranquility and beauty.
Pont Tibetain
1.5 km
Brave the heights of the Pont Tibetain in Canillo, Andorra, for breathtaking views and an unforgettable adrenaline rush across this stunning suspension bridge.
Essential places to dine
Dagda Irish Pub en Canillo
1.3 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Dagda Irish Pub in Canillo - your perfect getaway in Andorra.
La Cabana
1.3 km
Discover the culinary gems of Canillo at La Cabana - where local flavors meet exquisite dining experiences.
Restaurante La Fonclette
1.3 km
Discover authentic Andorran cuisine at Restaurante La Fonclette in Canillo - where every meal is a delightful culinary journey.
RESTAURANT PIZZERIA CAL LULU
1.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Pizzeria Cal Lulu in Canillo - where delicious pizza meets warm hospitality.
Arlequí Pizzeria
1.4 km
Discover Arlequí Pizzeria in Canillo: Savor authentic Italian flavors alongside Indian and Mexican delights in a cozy setting.
La Relliscada
1.4 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at La Relliscada in Canillo, where delicious flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
RESTAURANT PIZZERIA LA TAULA DELS AMICS
1.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Pizzeria La Taula Dels Amics in Canillo—where every bite tells a story.
FRANKFURT EL COBERT
1.4 km
Experience the best of grilled cuisine at Frankfurt El Cobert in Canillo, where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
RESTAURANT EL SOLÀ
1.4 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Restaurant El Solà in Canillo – where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Taverna l'Iguana
1.5 km
Discover authentic Andorran flavors at Taverna l'Iguana in Canillo—where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Burger Brothers Cafe - Canillo
1.5 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Burger Brothers Cafe in Canillo – where taste meets charm in the heart of Andorra.
Cal Bonavida
1.5 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Cal Bonavida in Canillo – a culinary gem surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
bar restaurant la Canya
1.7 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Bar Restaurant La Canya in picturesque Canillo – where every meal tells a story.
Molí del Peano
1.7 km
Experience authentic Andorran cuisine at Molí del Peano in Canillo - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Borda del Pi
2.0 km
Experience the enchanting flavors of Andorra at Borda del Pi—where rustic charm meets culinary excellence amidst stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Casa Petita
1.3 km
Explore La Casa Petita in Canillo, where innovative interior design meets architectural excellence for a unique cultural experience.
Pic Negre 9 - Canillo
1.5 km
Experience the best of skiing and cycling at Pic Negre 9, your premier destination for outdoor adventures in Canillo, Andorra.
ESPORTS PIROT CANILLO
1.5 km
Discover top-notch ski equipment and expert advice at ESPORTS PIROT, the leading ski shop in Canillo for all your winter sports needs.
Pic Negre 14 - Encamp
2.2 km
Experience winter sports excitement at Pic Negre 14 - your go-to ski shop and bicycle rental service in Encamp, Andorra.
Luz del universo Encamp
2.8 km
Discover Luz del universo Encamp, where Andorran fashion meets style in a cozy shopping haven, perfect for every traveler.
Andorra Turisme
3.3 km
Explore the majestic landscapes and rich heritage of Andorra with Andorra Turisme, your guide to unforgettable adventures in the Pyrenees.
ESPORTS CUBIL
4.1 km
Discover top-quality outdoor sports gear and ski rentals at Esports Cubil, your adventure hub in L'Aldosa de Canillo, Andorra.
Centre Manacor
5.1 km
Explore Centre Manacor in Canillo for unique home goods and local artistry that capture the essence of Andorra.
Skiz
5.4 km
Explore the outdoors with top-quality gear from Skiz, the leading sporting goods store in El Tarter, Andorra.
Pic Negre 4 - El tarter
5.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Pyrenees at Pic Negre 4 - El Tarter, your go-to destination for skiing and cycling adventures.
NORDIC ESPORTS
5.4 km
Discover top-notch ski gear and rentals at Nordic Esports in El Tarter, your gateway to unforgettable skiing in Grandvalira.
Ski Chalet Andorra - El Tarter | KOKONO
5.8 km
Experience the ultimate ski getaway at Ski Chalet Andorra in El Tarter—your luxurious retreat in the heart of the Pyrenees!
Pic Negre 19 - Anyós
6.0 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Pic Negre 19 in Anyós, your go-to ski shop for rentals and outdoor sports gear in the breathtaking landscapes of Andorra.
Mobles Rustic Corner Art i Fusta- Andorra-La Massana
6.0 km
Explore the rustic charm of Andorra at Mobles Rustic Corner Art i Fusta, where handcrafted furniture meets artisanal excellence in La Massana.
bonÀrea
6.2 km
Explore the flavors of Andorra at bonÀrea, La Massana's premier supermarket offering fresh produce, quality meats, and local delicacies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Xiringuito del Mirador del Roc
1.6 km
Discover Xiringuito del Mirador del Roc, a scenic bar in Canillo offering spectacular views and a perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation.
BAR LUGO
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of Bar Lugo in Encamp, where every sip tells a story of Andorra's rich culture.
TIRANT LO BLANC
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Tirant Lo Blanc, the perfect bar for a relaxing getaway in Encamp, Andorra.
BAR GRANADA
2.3 km
Discover the delightful flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Bar Granada, Encamp's favorite grill bar, where every meal tells a story.
BAR ORLANDO
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bar Orlando in Encamp, where affordable drinks meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
BAR VALIPAS
2.4 km
Discover the warmth and charm of Bar Valipas in Encamp, a perfect retreat for tourists seeking relaxation and local flavors.
SIGNUM
2.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Argentina at SIGNUM, where barbecue delights and local brews create an unforgettable dining experience in Encamp.
BAR LA PARADA
3.0 km
Discover the heart of Encamp at Bar La Parada, where local flavors and a warm atmosphere create a memorable experience for all visitors.
HOTEL GASPA
5.3 km
Experience the charm of Andorra at Hotel Gaspa, where comfort meets stunning mountain views in the heart of Ordino.
Sport Bar nemo
5.4 km
Discover Sport Bar Nemo: The Ultimate Gastropub Experience in El Tarter with Live Music, Craft Beer, and Delicious Burgers.
Restaurant La Palmera
5.6 km
Discover the charm of Andorra at Restaurant La Palmera, your go-to bar for local drinks and a relaxing atmosphere.
Placeta El Tarter 25
5.6 km
Discover the charm of Placeta El Tarter, a cozy bar in El Tarter offering a delightful array of drinks amidst stunning mountain views.
Restaurant Aldosa
5.7 km
Experience the flavors of Andorra at Restaurant Aldosa, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a charming atmosphere.
Dylan's
5.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Dylan's in El Tarter, where every meal is a delightful experience in a cozy atmosphere.
Foc I Lloc
5.8 km
Discover the flavors of Andorra at Foc I Lloc, a charming restaurant in El Tarter offering local dishes in a warm, inviting setting.
