Mare de Déu de Meritxell: Countdown to Andorra’s National Day
A kingdom nestled in mountains.
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When is the Independence Day of Andorra?
Andorra’s Independence Day is celebrated on 8 September, known as Our Lady of Meritxell Day, which serves as the country’s national day.
Is the Independence Day of Andorra a public holiday?
Yes, Our Lady of Meritxell Day on 8 September is a public holiday in Andorra, with businesses, schools, and government offices closed for the celebrations.
History of Andorra independence
Andorra doesn’t have a traditional “Independence Day” in the sense of breaking away from a colonial or occupying power. Instead, it celebrates Our Lady of Meritxell Day on 8 September as its National Day. The roots of Andorra’s political independence go back to 1278, when the Pareage Agreement was signed between the Count of Foix (France) and the Bishop of Urgell (Spain), establishing joint sovereignty. Over centuries, this arrangement kept Andorra independent despite being between two powerful nations.
The celebration on 8 September is tied to the country’s patron saint, Our Lady of Meritxell, and combines religious devotion with national pride. On this day, there are festive parades, cultural events, and a symbolic countdown in communities, almost like a festive counter marking the day when Andorrans unite to honor their identity and unique sovereignty.
Capital of Andorra
Andorra la Vella, the capital and largest city of Andorra, lies high in the east Pyrenees between France and Spain. This Andorran parish had a population of 22,256 in 2015, while its wider urban area, including Escaldes–Engordany and nearby satellite villages, houses over 40,000 inhabitants. Tourism forms the principal industry, supported by the country’s reputation as a tax haven. Located at an elevation of 1,023 m (3,356 ft), it is the highest capital city in Europe and shares a border with Spain. Every year, during the festive season leading to the National Day, locals and visitors alike enjoy events in the city with a cheerful countdown, making the festive counter a symbol of anticipation for celebrations in this charming European capital.
| Parish | Official Language | Main Variety | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andorra la Vella | Catalan | Central Catalan | Capital city, shopping & government. |
| Canillo | Catalan | Pyrenean Catalan | Ski resorts, Sant Joan de Caselles church. |
| Encamp | Catalan | Pyrenean Catalan | Port of the mountains, cable car to Grandvalira. |
| Escaldes-Engordany | Catalan | Central Catalan | Hot springs, spa culture. |
| La Massana | Catalan | Pyrenean Catalan | Skiing, Vallnord resort. |
| Ordino | Catalan | Pyrenean Catalan | Countryside, traditional feel & museums. |
| Sant Julià de Lòria | Catalan | Central Catalan | University of Andorra, proximity to Spain. |
Source: general info about Andorra’s parishes (Catalan is the official language throughout).
Andorra National Day (2025–2030)
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 8, 2025 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 8, 2026 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 8, 2027 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 8, 2028 | Friday |
| 2029 | September 8, 2029 | Saturday |
| 2030 | September 8, 2030 | Sunday |
* Observed annually on September 8 — Feast of Our Lady of Meritxell (Andorra's patron saint).
FAQs
What is Andorra best known for?
It’s renowned for its ski resorts, duty-free shopping, stunning mountain scenery, and its unique co-principality political system
How is Andorra governed?
Andorra is a parliamentary co-principality ruled jointly by the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell
What language is spoken in Andorra?
The official language is Catalan—it’s the only country where Catalan is the sole official language