Mysterious Andorra: Little-known facts guides never mention

Very small, but… mountainous and vast

Andorra is one of the smallest countries in Europe, covering an area of only 468 square kilometers. Its geography features beautiful mountains, as the entire country is located in the Pyrenees.

It is so compact that you can drive from one end to the other in just a few hours, and the scenery shifts from ancient villages to snow-covered peaks.

Feudal monarchy with two rulers

Andorra is the only country in the world jointly governed by two co-princes, and a system with feudal origins.

One co-prince is the President of France (as the successor of the Counts of Foix), and the other is the Bishop of Urgell (Spain).

Unique Andorra, a country that impresses absolutely everyone (photo: Getty Images)

Every citizen of France, by electing their president, automatically elects a monarch for Andorra. This makes Andorra a unique diarchy in which power is shared between a secular and a spiritual leader, one of whom is the head of another major republic.

This division of power was officially established in 1278, making Andorra one of the oldest ruling states in Europe.

No airport and no railway

Despite millions of tourists visiting the country every year, there is neither an airport nor a railway. It can only be reached by car or bus through France or Spain.

Country with no army

Andorra has no regular armed forces and has lived in peace for many centuries. The security and protection of its borders depend on France and Spain under informal agreements.

The Principality has only a small ceremonial guard (Sindic d'Andorra) and a police force to maintain internal order.

Forgotten status in World War I

Although Andorra officially declared war on Germany in 1914 (because of its ties to France), it was forgotten.

The country remained technically at war with Germany until 1958. The fact had been overlooked, and a peace treaty was signed only four decades after the conflict ended, once the legal oversight was brought to light.

Skiing in Andorra is possible at any time (photo: Getty Images)

Minimal taxes, duty-free shopping

For a long time, the country was a duty-free zone, which made prices for many goods, especially luxury items, far more attractive than in other European states.

In 2015, under pressure from the EU, the country introduced an income tax, but it is low, and thanks to numerous tax benefits, Andorra remains an attractive destination for shopping. Even now, taxes on most goods are significantly lower than in neighboring countries.

For this reason, many people from Spain and France come to shop for alcohol, cosmetics, clothing, and household goods.

Highest capital in Europe

The capital, Andorra la Vella, is situated at an altitude of about 1029 meters above sea level, making it the highest capital in Europe. A special climate, mountainous terrain, and views that instantly remind you that you are high in the mountains.

Andorra has beautiful nature (photo: Wikipedia)

Snow and mountains all year round, though unexpectedly

The Pyrenees give Andorra a distinctly ski resort character, with numerous resorts, passes, and lakes. At the same time, nature is so diverse that even cities have a mountain backdrop, and beyond them lie wild valleys, mountains, clean water, and wind.

Safety and stability

The country is considered one of the calmest in Europe, with a very low crime rate. The small population, compactness, and controlled lifestyle create a sense of stability unlike in large cities.

Ancient culture next to ski slopes

The country boasts dozens of ancient religious landmarks and Romanesque churches, some of which are more than 800-900 years old. You can see this historical architecture even while walking along narrow mountain streets or traveling to ski resorts. So Andorra is not only about shopping and mountains but also about heritage and tradition.

The towns in Andorra are surrounded by towering mountains (photo: Wikipedia)

Longevity and health

Andorra regularly appears among countries with the highest average life expectancy in global rankings. Thanks to clean mountain air, an active lifestyle, and high-quality medical services, Andorrans, on average, live longer than those in most other developed countries.

Ancient traditions

Interesting medieval traditions have been preserved in Andorra, such as the annual "witching" of accounting books: a debtor who fails to repay their debt by that date is subjected to a significant fine.

Interesting cuisine

Andorra is renowned for its cuisine, which combines elements of Spanish and French culinary traditions. One of the most popular dishes is trinxat, a dish made from potatoes, bacon, and cabbage.

It is also worth trying escalivada, a dish of roasted vegetables seasoned with garlic and olive oil, as well as coca de recapte, a pastry with various fillings.

Andorra has no airports or railways (photo: Wikipedia)

Russian attempt to take over Andorra

In 1934, a Russian named Boris Skosyrev attempted to seize the monarchy and declared himself Boris I of Andorra. He claimed he held the title of Count of Orange, allegedly granted to him by the Queen of the Netherlands. On top of that, he declared war on the Bishop of Urgell.

But his strange coup failed, and Skosyrev was arrested and later sent to Spain. There, he was sentenced to a year in prison for illegal border crossing and afterward expelled to Portugal.

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Sources: Love Planet, Andorra Facts, Vocal, Trip My Dreams, World Atlas.