Andorra

Andorra is a small, landlocked country located in southwestern Europe.

It sits within the eastern Pyrenees mountains. The country is bordered by France to the north and Spain to the south.

As a state, it is the sixth-smallest in Europe. Globally, it ranks as the 16th-smallest country by land area. Its population was approximately 89,058 as of February 2026. The capital is Andorra la Vella. This city is the largest in the nation. It also holds the title of the highest capital city in Europe.

The political structure of Andorra is unique. It is a principality led by two co-princes. One co-prince is the Bishop of Urgell from Catalonia, Spain. The other co-prince is the president of France. This dual leadership system has deep historical roots. In 1278, a charter established Andorra as a lordship. This occurred within the Principality of Catalonia. A second agreement, or paréage, was signed in 1288. This document prevented the building of new military structures. Over time, the French co-prince title passed through various leaders. In 1607, an edict confirmed the French head of state as a co-lord.

Andorran history began long before modern borders existed. Archaeologists found evidence of seasonal camps at La Balma de la Margineda. These sites were used by hunter-gatherers as early as 9,500 BCE. These groups used the valleys for hunting and fishing. By 6640 BCE, people moved to the Valley of Madriu. They established permanent camps and grew cereals. They also raised domestic livestock and traded with neighbors. During the Bronze Age, settlements became more complex. People began practicing metallurgy to create iron items. The sanctuary of Roc de les Bruixes is a key site from this era.

Ancient tribes inhabited these mountain valleys during the classical era. The Greek historian Polybius wrote about the Andosins. This Iberian tribe lived in the valleys during the Punic Wars.

Later, Roman influence spread through the region from the 2nd century BCE. Locals traded goods like wine and cereals with Roman cities. After the Roman Empire fell, the Visigoths ruled for 200 years. Christianity spread during this period. Eventually, the land came under the influence of the Franks. Tradition suggests Charlemagne helped create the region. In 988, the valleys were transferred to the Diocese of Urgell.

Andorra is well known for its Romanesque art and architecture. This style flourished between the 9th and 14th centuries. The country features many historic churches and medieval bridges.

The church of Sant Miquel d'Engolasters contains beautiful religious murals.

These buildings are part of the nation's cultural heritage. The economy has changed many times throughout history. In the Middle Ages, people relied on livestock and agriculture. By the 15th century, iron forges became an important activity. Today, tourism is a major part of the economy. Approximately 8 million visitors arrive in Andorra every year.

The Andorran people belong to a Romance group. They are closely related to the Catalans. Because of this, Catalan is the official language. However, many residents also speak Spanish, French, or Portuguese. The country has developed organized government systems over centuries. In 1419, the General Council of the Valleys was founded. This is the second oldest parliament in Europe.

The government uses a representative called a syndic. This person acts as a spokesman to the co-princes. The country also established Justice Courts in 1433.

Andorra maintains specific international relationships. It is not a member of the European Union. However, it has joined other major organizations. It became a member of the United Nations in 1993. It also joined the Council of Europe that same year. This allows the small nation to participate in global affairs. Despite its small size, it remains a distinct and active part of Europe. The combination of ancient traditions and modern tourism defines the nation today.