Sanctuary of Meritxell
Sanctuary of Meritxell is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Andorra la Vella & Andorra audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~30 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type religious
- Suggested visit ~30 min
- Andorra la Vella & Andorra Andorra la Vella & Andorra guide
About Sanctuary of Meritxell
The Sanctuary of Meritxell in Canillo, shrine of Andorra's patron saint, rebuilt in 1974-1976 by Ricardo Bofill after a fire, with white arches and slate walls beside the restored old chapel.
Our Lady of Meritxell was declared patron of Andorra in 1873, and her feast on 8 September is the national day. A fire in 1972 destroyed the old chapel and its 12th-century statue.
The Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill designed a new sanctuary, opened on 8 September 1976, which echoes the Romanesque with white arches and dark slate. The old chapel was restored beside it and holds an exhibition. Entry to the church is free.
Did you know? Our Lady of Meritxell was declared patron of Andorra by the country's council in 1873, and her feast day, 8 September, is Andorra's national day.
How long should you spend at Sanctuary of Meritxell?
Plan about ~30 min at Sanctuary of Meritxell. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Sanctuary of Meritxell worth visiting?
Sanctuary of Meritxell is one of the 13 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Andorra la Vella & Andorra, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Andorra la Vella & Andorra
Andorra la Vella & Andorra guide →
Day 2 of the Andorra la Vella & Andorra in 2 days itinerary →
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Hear the story of Sanctuary of Meritxell
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