Andorra has a deep-rooted ecclesiastical tradition, as evidenced by the countless churches that dot the Principality.
Although there are several styles, the most important are undoubtedly those built in the Romanesque style.
The church has always played a very important role in the history of Andorra.
Exerting great influence in all sectors of society, it was the key to the survival of the institutional system, which allowed the country to remain an independent and neutral nation, without any military force and with excellent internal organization.
In the small territory of Andorra there are more than 30 Romanesque churches but the most important are the Church of Santa Coloma, the church of Sant Joan de Caselles and the church of Sant Esteve.
The Church of Santa Coloma is one of the oldest in Andorra. Dating back to the pre-Romanesque period, it was built between the eighth and ninth centuries and has a rectangular nave with a quadrangular apse. Its current appearance derives from the renovation carried out during the twelfth century, when the circular bell tower of 18 meters high in Lombard style was added.
The church of Sant Joan de Caselles is located on the road from Andorra la Vella through Canillo and towards France. It was built between the eleventh and twelfth centuries and follows the characteristic architectural structure of the Romanesque churches of Andorra. Inside are the remains of a 12th-century Romanesque stucco majesty surrounded by a mural painting scene depicting the crucifixion. Behind the screen is a 16th-century altarpiece of great artistic quality with influences from the Italian and German Renaissance.
The church of Sant Esteve is located in the heart of the old town of Andorra la Vella, next to the Casa de la Vall. Built in the twelfth century in Romanesque style, it has a 3-storey square bell tower and Baroque altarpieces depicting Santa Lucia and Giovanni Battista.
