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Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell: Andorra's Spiritual Heart

Discover Andorra's spiritual heart at the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell, a modern architectural marvel steeped in history and devotion.

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Nestled in the Andorran Pyrenees, the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell is a modern architectural marvel and a deeply symbolic place for Andorrans, housing the revered image of their patron saint. Rebuilt after a devastating fire, it blends contemporary design with Romanesque inspiration.

A brief summary to Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Meritxell Memoria exhibition in the former sanctuary to learn about the history and significance of the basilica.
  • Explore the nature route leading to the Meritxell Oratories and the village of Prats for a peaceful escape.
  • Attend the festival of Nostra Senyora de Meritxell on September 8th, Andorra's National Day, to experience the country's cultural and religious traditions.
  • Take time to appreciate the basilica's architecture, which blends Romanesque elements with modern design.
  • Look for the statues of the patron saints of the Andorran parishes inside the basilica, created by sculptor Sergi Mas.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Andorra la Vella, take one of the regular bus lines that serve Meritxell. The bus routes connect the main points of the country. Check the official Andorra transport website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ticket will cost approximately €1.90.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Andorra la Vella. A taxi ride to Meritxell will take approximately 11 minutes and cost between €30 and €40. Taxi ranks are located on Meritxell Avenue in Andorra la Vella.

  • Driving

    From Andorra la Vella, the drive to Meritxell is approximately 10 km and takes around 11 minutes. Take the CG-2 towards Canillo, and follow the signs to Meritxell. There is a large, free parking lot at the foot of the Sanctuary.

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Discover more about Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell

The Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell, located in the parish of Canillo, stands as Andorra's most important religious site and a testament to the country's faith and cultural identity. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin of Meritxell, the patron saint of Andorra, whose image is venerated within its walls. The sanctuary's history is rooted in a 12th-century legend, where a shepherd discovered an image of the Virgin Mary amidst blooming rose bushes in winter. The Andorrans decided to build a chapel there. The General Council of the Valleys declared Our Lady of Meritxell the patron saint of the country in 1873. The original Romanesque chapel was renovated in the 17th century, but a fire on September 8, 1972, tragically destroyed the sanctuary and the original Romanesque carving of the Virgin. The present basilica, designed by Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill, opened in 1976 and showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, incorporating elements of Romanesque design with modern aesthetics. Bofill aimed to create a space that harmonized with the surrounding landscape, utilizing slate to connect the basilica to Andorran tradition and luminous white to symbolize the winter snow. The open cloister, characterized by uncovered archways, offers a space for contemplation amidst the mountains and gardens. Inside, a replica of the Romanesque carving of the Virgin, crafted according to the Romanesque canons, is venerated. The complex has been declared of Cultural Interest by the Government of Andorra. In 2014, Pope Francis granted the Sanctuary the title of Minor Basilica. The Sanctuary of Meritxell is part of the Marian Route that links five sanctuaries of Saint Mary: Pilar, Torreciudad, Lourdes, Montserrat and Meritxell.

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