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Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar: A Window to Andorra's Past

Discover Andorra's ancient past at Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar, a Romanesque church with stunning views and rich history.

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The Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar, a Romanesque church, stands as one of Andorra's oldest religious sites. Perched on a hill overlooking Santa Coloma, it offers a glimpse into the principality's Visigothic and early medieval history, withstanding centuries of change.

A brief summary to Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the church, as the path can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the valley from the church grounds.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Santa Coloma, follow Carrer dels Barrers to its end. A small, communal parking area marks the trailhead. The route is approximately 3km roundtrip on a mountain path with uneven terrain and some steep areas, allow about 1.5 hours. Note that this route is not suitable for those with mobility issues. Parking fees may apply.

  • Public Transport

    From Andorra la Vella, take bus line L1 towards Sant Julià de Lòria and disembark at Santa Coloma. From there, follow Carrer dels Barrers to the end where the walking trail begins. The bus is free for residents with a season ticket. The walking trail is approximately 3km roundtrip on a mountain path with uneven terrain and some steep areas, allow about 1.5 hours. Note that this route is not suitable for those with mobility issues. Parking fees may apply.

  • Taxi

    From Andorra la Vella, a taxi to the trailhead at the end of Carrer dels Barrers in Santa Coloma will cost approximately €20-€24 and take about 7 minutes. From there, the route is approximately 3km roundtrip on a mountain path with uneven terrain and some steep areas, allow about 1.5 hours. Note that this route is not suitable for those with mobility issues. Parking fees may apply.

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Discover more about Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar

The Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar is a captivating historical site located in Andorra la Vella, specifically in the village of Santa Coloma. This Romanesque church, along with the Church of Santa Coloma, is one of the oldest in Andorra, with its origins tracing back to the late 8th or early 9th century. The church was part of the fortified Visigothic complex of Enclar. Architecturally, Sant Vicenç d'Enclar features a rectangular nave and a square apse. A unique circular bell tower graces the southern wall, adorned with windows and small arched openings. The church's design reflects Catalan and Languedocian architectural styles prevalent in the 10th century and earlier. Inside, the church has simple yet striking features, including granite flooring in the nave and limestone in the apse. Excavations around the church have revealed remnants of an earlier structure and a necropolis with tombs dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. These findings highlight the area's historical significance as a religious and defensive site. The church's location on a hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley, enhancing its appeal as a place for contemplation and appreciation of Andorra's natural beauty. Although it was abandoned for a time and fell into disrepair, it was carefully restored in 1980 using archaeological research and old photographs. In December 2019, the bell tower collapsed but was reconstructed and reopened in July 2023. Visitors can access the church via a scenic walking path from Santa Coloma, which adds to the experience. The site provides a serene environment for exploring Andorra's cultural heritage and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

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