Background

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 blend of modern architecture and rich history.

4.5

The Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell, located in Meritxell, Canillo, is Andorra's most important religious site. It honors the Virgin of Meritxell, the patron saint of Andorra. The basilica is a modern architectural marvel with a rich history and deep cultural significance.

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 old sanctuary to learn about the history and significance of the basilica.
  • Take a guided tour (available from May to October) to fully appreciate the basilica's architecture and artwork.
  • Explore the nature route leading to the Meritxell Oratories and the village of Prats for a peaceful escape.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Andorra la Vella, take bus lines L3 or L4 to the 'Meritxell' stop. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the Sanctuary. Bus tickets can be purchased directly on the bus for approximately €1.90.

  • Car

    From Andorra la Vella, follow the CS-200 and then the CS-230 to Meritxell. Parking is available at a free day-only parking lot at the foot of the Sanctuary. Be aware that overnight parking is prohibited in the village of Canillo. Finding parking on Avenida Meritxell in Andorra la Vella can be difficult. Consider parking in the Saba public car park at the end of the avenue on Avenida Pau Casals. Expect to pay hourly/daily rates.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Andorra la Vella, including taxi stands on Avenida Meritxell. A taxi from Andorra la Vella to Meritxell takes approximately 11 minutes and costs between €30-€40.

Unlock the Best of Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell

Nestled in the Andorran Pyrenees, the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell stands as a testament to the country's faith and cultural identity. This basilica is dedicated to the Virgin of Meritxell, the patron saint of Andorra, and is the most important religious site in the principality. The sanctuary's history is rooted in a 12th-century legend. According to the tale, a shepherd discovered an image of the Virgin Mary under a blooming rosebush in the winter. The Andorrans decided to build a chapel there after the image returned to the same location multiple times. In 1873, the General Council of the Valleys declared Our Lady of Meritxell the patron saint of the country, and she was solemnly crowned on September 8, 1921, which is now celebrated as Andorra's national holiday. The original Romanesque sanctuary was destroyed by a devastating fire in 1972, which also claimed the Romanesque carving of the Virgin. This tragic event led to the construction of the current basilica, designed by renowned Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill. Bofill's design, completed in 1976, blends modern and medieval styles, incorporating elements of Romanesque and Gothic architecture while harmonizing with the Pyrenean landscape. The basilica was granted the title of Minor Basilica by Pope Francis in 2014. Inside, visitors can admire a replica of the original Romanesque carving of the Virgin, as well as statues of the patron saints of the Andorran parishes. The complex also includes the Meritxell Memoria exhibition, housed in the restored old sanctuary, which showcases the history and cult of Meritxell. The basilica is part of the Marian Route, connecting it to other significant sanctuaries in Spain and France.

Popular Experiences near Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell

Popular Hotels near Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell

Select Currency