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Saint Roman of les Bons: A Romanesque Jewel

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of this 12th-century Romanesque church in Encamp, Andorra, part of the fascinating Les Bons historical complex.

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Nestled in Encamp, Andorra, Saint Roman of les Bons is a captivating Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century. Admire its unique architecture, including a Lombard-style apse, and discover reproductions of Romanesque paintings inside. The church is part of the Les Bons historical complex, offering a glimpse into Andorra's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Saint Roman of les Bons

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and stunning photographs.
  • Take a guided tour (available in July and August) to learn more about the church's history and architectural features.
  • Explore the surrounding areas for hiking trails with spectacular views of the Andorran landscape.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Encamp Tourist Information Office (Plaça del Consell, 1), walk towards the old town. Follow the signs for Les Bons, which will lead you uphill through charming streets and past historical buildings. The walk to Saint Roman of les Bons takes approximately 15-20 minutes and offers scenic views of the valley. Note that the path is moderately steep.

  • Public Transport

    Take the L2, L3, or L4 bus from Andorra la Vella to Encamp. Get off at the Riu Blanc bus stop, which is the closest to the Encamp town center. From there, follow the walking directions to Saint Roman of les Bons (approximately 15-20 minutes uphill). A single bus fare within Andorra costs around €2.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Encamp, a taxi ride to Saint Roman of les Bons is a quick option. Taxis are readily available in the town center. The ride takes only a few minutes, but walking is recommended to enjoy the scenery. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a short taxi trip within Encamp.

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Discover more about Saint Roman of les Bons

Saint Roman of les Bons, gracefully perched on a rock in the historic village of Les Bons, Encamp, is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture in Andorra. Dedicated to Saint Roman of Antioch, this enchanting Catholic church invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in a world where spirituality and artistry intertwine. Built in the mid-12th century and consecrated in 1164, the church showcases the understated elegance of Romanesque design. Its rectangular nave, topped with a semicircular Lombardian apse, is a unique feature among Andorran Romanesque churches. The apse is adorned with Lombard-style decorations, featuring bands and arches that add a rhythmic quality to the structure. The west-facing entrance boasts a semicircular arch crowned by a sawtooth frieze, highlighting the remarkable craftsmanship of the era. A gabled bell tower with two semicircular apertures rises on the western wall, accentuating the church's elegant profile. Over the centuries, Saint Roman of les Bons has undergone several modifications. In the 16th and 17th centuries, a porch was added to provide shelter for worshippers. The church's location within the Les Bons complex underscores its historical significance as a fortified site. Adjacent to the church, the ruins of a 13th-century defense tower and a robust house offer glimpses into the site's strategic importance. A stone water tank with a sophisticated irrigation system demonstrates the medieval ingenuity in preserving the complex's food supply. Inside, visitors can explore a tapestry of history, with artifacts from various eras. The interior features reproductions of Romanesque mural paintings by the Master of Santa Coloma, depicting scenes from Saint John's apocalyptic vision. The original murals are preserved in the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Gothic paintings from the 16th century, with images related to Saint Peter, add to the artistic richness. A Gothic polychrome altarpiece, dedicated to Saint Roman, further enhances the historical depth. Today, Saint Roman of les Bons stands as a cherished legacy, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. Its architecture, art, and historical context provide a unique lens through which to examine Andorra's medieval heritage. The church offers a serene atmosphere for quiet reflection, enhanced by the surrounding lush greenery and scenic views.

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