Casa de la Vall: Andorra's Historic Parliament

Casa de la Vall, meaning "House of the Valley," is a prominent historical landmark in Andorra la Vella. Constructed in the late 16th century (1580) as a manor house for the wealthy Busquets family, its architecture reflects a blend of a fortified house and traditional Pyrenean design.In 1702, the building was acquired by the Consell General (General Council), becoming the seat of Andorra's parliament for over three centuries, until 2011. During this time, it also housed the country's courts. The Casa de la Vall witnessed significant events in Andorran history and underwent renovations in 1962 to better serve its parliamentary functions.Today, Casa de la Vall operates as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Andorra's past. Key features include the Criminal Court with its original wooden furniture, the Hall of Lost Steps adorned with 16th-century murals, the main session room, and the Cabinet of Seven Keys, which safeguarded important state documents. The building's exterior showcases a quadrangular structure with stone arches, thick walls, and a cylindrical dovecote tower. The main facade displays the Busquets family coat of arms and Andorra's motto: "Virtus, Unita, Fortior" (Virtue, Unity, Strength).