Casa de la Vall: Andorra's Historic Parliament

Casa de la Vall, or House of the Valley, stands as one of Andorra's most significant historical landmarks. Constructed in the late 16th century (1580) as a manor house for the Busquets family, it occupies a rocky site overlooking the Valira River valley. In 1702, the Consell General (General Council) acquired the building, transforming it into the seat of Andorra's parliament until 2011. For over three centuries, Casa de la Vall was the heart of Andorran parliamentary life and the seat of the country's courts. The building's architecture features a blend of medieval and neo-Gothic styles. The exterior showcases a quadrangular structure with three galleries, thick walls of lime mortar and local sandstone blocks, and defensive elements like embrasures and a dovecote tower. Inside, visitors can explore the Criminal Court with its original wooden furniture, the Hall of Lost Steps adorned with 16th-century murals, and the Council Chamber where parliamentary sessions were held. The Cabinet of Seven Keys holds important historical documents. Today, Casa de la Vall functions as a museum, offering guided tours that delve into Andorran history, political traditions, and cultural heritage. Although the parliament has moved to a new building, Casa de la Vall continues to host ceremonial events. The surrounding square features sculptures depicting key moments in Andorran history, such as the signing of the Pariatge and the 1993 constitutional referendum.