Background

Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich: A Sanctuary in the Mountains

Discover the serene Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich in Andorra, a historic sanctuary with stunning mountain views and rich cultural heritage.

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The Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich, or Sanctuary of Our Lady of Canòlich, is a Catholic church and historical landmark nestled in the Andorran Pyrenees. This serene sanctuary offers stunning views and a glimpse into Andorra's religious and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich

  • Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-2 pm
  • Friday 10 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the sanctuary for free, but consider booking a guided tour in advance through the Sant Julià de Lòria Tourist Office for a more in-depth experience.
  • Attend the annual "Aplec de Canòlich" pilgrimage on the last Saturday of May to experience a traditional Andorran celebration.
  • Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the sanctuary.
  • Look for the small oratory near the Romanesque bridge of Aixovall, where you can see an image of the Virgin Mary.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Sant Julià de Lòria, follow the signs towards Canòlich. The walk is a steep but rewarding climb of approximately 5km, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. The route offers scenic views of the valley. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water.

  • Public Transport

    During the annual 'Aplec de Canòlich' (last Saturday of May), the Comú of Sant Julià de Lòria provides a free bus service from various points in the town, including Camp Gran, Les Arades, and the Aixovall roundabout. Outside of this event, you can take the L1 bus to Sant Julià de Lòria and then take a taxi to the Sanctuary. Bus fare is approximately €2. The free bus service for the Aplec runs hourly.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sant Julià de Lòria. A taxi ride from the town center to the Santuari de Canòlich takes approximately 15 minutes. Expect to pay around €15-€20 for the trip. You can book a taxi by calling +376 863 000 or +376 828 000. There is an extra charge of €1.15 for booking office call.

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Discover more about Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich

The Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Canòlich stands as a testament to faith and history in the Andorran landscape. Located at 1,635 meters above sea level, this sanctuary has been a site of pilgrimage since medieval times. Historical records suggest that a church existed on this site as early as 1176. The current building, however, largely dates back to the early 20th century, with some elements from the 17th and 18th centuries. The architecture features a rectangular nave and a gabled bell tower, reflecting a blend of Romanesque and Baroque styles. Inside, visitors can admire a Baroque altarpiece dedicated to Santa Maria and ceramic murals by the artist Sergi Mas. According to local tradition, a shepherd from Bixessarri discovered a polychrome carving of the Virgin Mary in 1223, guided by a white dove to a small cave. In response, the people built a shrine to honor the Virgin. The original Romanesque statue of the Mother of God of Canòlich, dating from the late 12th century, is now housed in the parish church of Sant Julià i Sant Germà in Sant Julià de Lòria. It was crowned by the Vatican in 1999. The sanctuary is a place of peace and reflection, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The annual pilgrimage, or "Aplec de Canòlich," takes place on the last Saturday of May, drawing many visitors to celebrate and share in the spirit of generosity. A free bus service is available for the event. While visiting, take note of the small oratory near the Romanesque bridge of Aixovall, which displays an image of the Virgin Mary. Historically, travelers would pause here to catch a glimpse of the sanctuary through the forest, highlighting the deep connection between the community and their patron saint.

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