National Day in Andorra
National Day is a holiday observed every September 8th in Andorra. This holiday commemorates Our Lady of Meritxell, the patron saint of Andorra, and the founding of the principality in 1278. On this day, people have the day off, and schools, businesses, and government offices are closed. There are also a variety of events that take place on this holiday.
Andorra (National holiday)This includes services held at the sanctuary of Santuari de Meritxell, as well as a concert and a torch procession. It’s also a day when people gather together with their friends and family members to enjoy traditional Andorran foods such as Escudella, Trucha a la Andorrana, and Crema Andorrana.
The History of National Day in Andorra
The Principality of Andorra is located in the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France and was originally founded by Emperor Charlemagne. Emperor Charlemagne had recovered the entirety of the area from the Muslims during the beginning of the 9th century. Later on, his son would grant part of the empire to the Spanish bishop of Urgell, and by the 13th century, Andorra was ruled by a Spanish prince and a French prince.
On September 8th, 1278, the first constitutional document of Andorra was signed. The form of government that was established in that document would be abandoned during the 1990s, however, and Andorra would adopt a parliamentary system.
Observing National Day in Andorra
This holiday is observed with torchlight processions, concerts, and festivals all across Andorra. It’s also celebrated with religious services at Santuari de Meritxell in honor of Our Lady of Meritxell.
It’s also a day off for the general public, so people have the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones on this day to enjoy some fine Andorran cuisine. It’s a day for people to not only honor the patron saint of their principality but also to commemorate the founding of the principality itself.
Andorra (National holiday)
