Background

Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich: A Sanctuary of Serenity

Discover the serene Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich in Andorra, a historic sanctuary offering spiritual reflection and stunning mountain views.

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Nestled in the Andorran mountains, the Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich is a Catholic sanctuary with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it offers a peaceful retreat for reflection and showcases remarkable architecture.

A brief summary to Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds.
  • Check local event calendars for religious celebrations or festivals.
  • Guided visits operate from June to September, requiring advance reservations at least 15 days before through the Sant Julià de Lòria Tourist Office.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the center of Sant Julià de Lòria, head northeast on Av. de la Unió towards Carrer de la Pica d'Estats. Continue straight onto the CG-1 road and follow it for about 4 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich, turning left onto the road leading into the hills. Parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    From La Cortinada, take Line 3 bus towards Andorra la Vella. Get off at the 'Sant Julià de Lòria' stop. From there, walk for approximately 20-25 minutes or take a local taxi to the Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich. Taxi fares may vary. Bus fare is approximately €2-€3.

  • Walking

    From the center of Sant Julià de Lòria, the walk to Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich is approximately 4 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. Start on Av. de la Unió, then follow CG-1 northbound. Be cautious while sharing the road with vehicles. Follow the signs.

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Discover more about Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich

The Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich, or Sanctuary of Our Lady of Canòlich, is a stunning Catholic sanctuary located in the parish of Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra. More than just a religious site, it's a historical monument with architecture that attracts visitors. References to the sanctuary date back to 1176, though the structure was constructed in the early 20th century over earlier Romanesque foundations. The current church was renovated in the 1970s. The exterior has a rectangular nave and a belfry bell tower. Inside is a Baroque altarpiece dedicated to Santa Maria. Sergi Mas created the ceramic murals. According to legend, a shepherd found an image of the Virgin Mary after a bird with brilliant plumage led him to a niche in the rock. In response, the people of Sant Julià de Lòria built a shrine to the Virgin. The Romanesque image of the Mother of God of Canòlich, a wooden statue from the late 1100s, is now in the parish church of Sant Julià y San Germà. It was crowned by the Vatican in 1999. Every year, on the last Saturday of May, the town celebrates the Aplec, starting with a climb to the sanctuary. The event venerates the Virgin with a pilgrimage. The celebration includes Mass, dancing, and a blessing and distribution of bread.

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