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Church of Santa Coloma: A Pyrenean Gem

Discover Andorra's oldest church, a Romanesque architectural gem with a unique circular bell tower and captivating history in Santa Coloma.

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The Church of Santa Coloma d'Andorra, nestled in the village of Santa Coloma, is one of Andorra's oldest churches, dating back to the 9th century. Its unique circular bell tower, added in the 12th century, sets it apart as a remarkable example of pre-Romanesque architecture in the Pyrenees.

A brief summary to Church of Santa Coloma d'Andorra

  • Carrer Major, Santa Coloma, AD500, AD

Local tips

  • Visit Espai Columba near the church to view the original Romanesque paintings and learn more about the church's history.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Explore the surrounding village of Santa Coloma for charming streets and local shops.
  • Combine your visit with a hike on one of the nearby trails, such as the Enclar Trail or the Cami de Santa Coloma a La Margineda.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Andorra la Vella, take bus line L1 or L1 LA MARGINEDA towards Santa Coloma. Get off at the 'Horts De La Margineda' bus stop, which is an 8-minute walk to the church. The bus fare is approximately €1. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Santa Coloma, the Church of Santa Coloma d'Andorra is easily accessible on foot. Start at the main square and head southeast on Carrer Major. The church is located along this street, approximately a 10-minute walk from the square. Look for the distinctive circular bell tower as you approach.

  • Taxi

    From Andorra la Vella, a taxi to the Church of Santa Coloma takes approximately 5 minutes and costs between €11 and €14. Taxis are readily available in Andorra la Vella.

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Discover more about Church of Santa Coloma d'Andorra

The Church of Santa Coloma d'Andorra, located in the village of Santa Coloma, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Believed to be one of the oldest churches in Andorra, its origins trace back to the 9th century. The church is dedicated to Columba of Sens, the patron saint of Andorra. The most distinctive feature of the Church of Santa Coloma is its circular Lombard-style bell tower, a rare architectural element in Andorra. Added in the 12th century, the four-story tower stands as a testament to the innovation of pre-Romanesque structures. The church itself features a rectangular nave and a quadrangular apse. Constructed from schist and granite bound with lime mortar, the building has undergone several renovations throughout its history, including major work in the 18th century. Originally, the church's chancel was adorned with 12th-century fresco murals. These murals, attributed to the Master of Santa Coloma, were removed in 1933 and eventually found their way to the National Museum of Catalan Art in Barcelona. However, in 2007, the Andorran Government recovered the paintings. Today, visitors can experience a virtual recreation of the original frescoes through video mapping, accompanied by light and sound, within the church. The church also houses a Romanesque polychrome wood image of Our Lady of Remedies and an 18th-century baroque altarpiece dedicated to Saint Columba. Surrounded by the picturesque village of Santa Coloma and the stunning Pyrenean mountains, the church offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and exploration.

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