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Església de Sant Martí de la Cortinada: A Romanesque Gem in Andorra

Discover the Església de Sant Martí de la Cortinada in Andorra: a stunning Romanesque church with exquisite murals and Baroque additions.

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The Església de Sant Martí de la Cortinada, located in the village of La Cortinada, is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture in Andorra. Originally built in the 12th century, the church showcases beautiful stonework and intricate frescoes, reflecting a rich ecclesiastical heritage. Subsequent expansions in the 17th and 18th centuries have added Baroque elements, creating a unique blend of styles.

A brief summary to Església de Sant Martí de la Cortinada

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Take a guided tour (available mid-July to mid-September) to learn more about the church's history and art.
  • Explore the surrounding village of La Cortinada to experience local culture and cuisine.
  • Check the local bus schedule for easy access via public transportation, as the Andorra Tourist Bus Route 6 stops nearby during the summer.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in La Cortinada, head towards the village center. From Plaza de la Cortinada, walk southwest on Carretera de la Cortinada for approximately 800 meters. Follow the signs directing you to Església de Sant Martí. The walk should take about 10-15 minutes. No cost involved.

  • Public Transport

    Check the local bus schedule for routes servicing La Cortinada. Buses connect the main towns of Andorra, including a stop in La Cortinada. From the La Cortinada bus stop, the church is about a 10-minute walk. Head towards Carretera de la Cortinada and follow the signs. A single bus fare within Andorra typically costs around €1-€2.

  • Car

    If driving, head towards the center of La Cortinada. From the main road, take the exit towards the local streets and follow the signs for Església de Sant Martí de la Cortinada. The church is approximately a 5-minute drive from the village center. Limited parking is available near the church. Parking is generally free, but availability can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Església de Sant Martí de la Cortinada

Nestled in the serene village of La Cortinada, the Església de Sant Martí stands as a magnificent testament to Andorra's Romanesque heritage. Dating back to the 12th century, this Catholic church has undergone several transformations, blending its original Romanesque architecture with later Baroque additions. Originally constructed in the 12th century, the church retains fascinating mural paintings by the Master of La Cortinada, dating back to the late 12th century. These murals, discovered in 1968, depict both religious and secular scenes, offering a unique glimpse into the medieval world. The church's structure was significantly altered in the 16th and 17th centuries when it was reoriented to face north. The new main altar was adorned with a vibrant, polychrome wooden altarpiece from the 17th century, dedicated to the church's patron saint, Saint Martin of Tours. Inside, visitors can admire the Baroque altarpieces in the side chapels, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Saint Anthony of Padua, and Our Lady of the Rosary. The wrought iron grilles, 17th-century wooden furniture, and the confessional are other notable features. The bell tower, with its distinctive sawtooth decoration, houses wrought iron gates from the 17th century that protect the chapels. Surrounding the church, you'll find examples of Andorran civil architecture, such as the Cal Pal Mill and Saw Works and the Cal Pal stately home with its white watchtower.

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