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

Discover Andorra's ancient past at the Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar, a Romanesque gem with stunning views in Santa Coloma.

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The Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar, a Romanesque church, stands as one of Andorra's oldest religious sites. Located in Santa Coloma, Andorra la Vella, it was part of a fortified Visigothic complex. The church's simple rectangular design, square apse, and unique circular bell tower offer a glimpse into 9th-century architecture and Andorran history.

A brief summary to Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the church is only accessible by foot and involves a short uphill walk.
  • Take time to explore the grounds around the church for panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Església de Santa Coloma to see another of Andorra's oldest churches.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Santa Coloma, the Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar is accessible only by foot. Head towards the end of Carrer dels Barrers, where a small parking area is located. From there, follow the marked path uphill. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes and involves a climb of about 150 meters. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in sections.

  • Public Transport

    From Andorra la Vella, take the L1 bus towards Encamp. Alight at the Santa Coloma stop. From there, follow Carrer Major, then Carrer dels Barrers to the start of the walking path to the church. The bus fare is approximately €2. The walk from the bus stop to the church takes around 25-30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Andorra la Vella. A taxi from the city center to the base of the trail in Santa Coloma will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on the time of day and traffic. From there, the church is only accessible by foot.

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Discover more about Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar

Perched on a hill 150 meters above Santa Coloma, the Església de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar offers both historical insight and panoramic views. This Romanesque church, along with the Església de Santa Coloma, is among the oldest in Andorra, dating back to the 9th century. It was a key part of the fortified complex of Enclar during the Visigothic era, serving as a strategic point for the Counts of Urgell to control access to the high country between the 9th and 12th centuries. The church's architecture reflects Catalan and Languedocian influences of the time. Its rectangular nave and square apse are complemented by a distinctive circular bell tower. The tower features a floor of windows and a second tier of seven small arched windows. Inside, the church has been restored to its original appearance, revealing a simple yet profound spiritual space. Excavations around the church have uncovered a sector dedicated to religious life, including burials, small housing units, and a defensive wall. While the church has undergone restoration, including reconstruction of the bell tower after its collapse in 2019, it remains a testament to Andorra's rich history. Exploring the church grounds provides a sense of the past and offers stunning views of the surrounding Andorran landscape.

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