Overview:

The Church of Sant Pere Màrtir, which is more commonly known as “Sant Pere Màrtir”, is a church located in Canillo, Andorra. Construction on the Romanesque-style church began in the 11th century and continued in the 12th century and in the subsequent centuries. It is believed to be the oldest church in the Principality of Andorra. The church contains a 13th century font and a statue of St. Peter, created by Xavier Vilardebó. There is also a small cloister nearby. The church is open to the public for viewing, and is the site of a number of regular religious and cultural events. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Andorra
Prominent Features:

1. Late Gothic architecture: The church of Sant Pere Màrtir was built in the late 13th century. The church features the typical Gothic style of its time, with pointed arches, ribbed vaults and crenellations. 2. Historic Significance: The site of the current church dates back to the apostolic times of the 8th century. The church was built on the ruins of an old Roman temple. Over the years, the church served as a cultural center, a place of pilgrimage, and as a meeting point between local and international pilgrims. 3. Wall paintings: Not only the church's façade was decorated with mural paintings depicting scenes from the Old Testament, but also its interior walls were adorned with many paintings. Most of these paintings have been partially or totally erased during the recent renovations of the church, but some can still be distinguished. 4. Ceramic Tile: Another highlight of the church is the ceramic tiles that decorate and embellish its floor. 5. Chapel of the Virgin: At the right side of the nave of the church, the Chapel of the Virgin is located. It is thought that over two thousand years ago, a Romanesque temple stood here and it was later transformed into the Chapel of the Virgin. This chapel still has some original features, such as a dome vaulted ceiling, and Romanesque capital columns. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Andorra.

History:

The Church of Sant Pere Màrtir in Canillo, Andorra, was constructed in the late 12th century, during the episcopate of Pere d’Alény. It was initially a Romanesque style church, however since the 17th century it has undergone numerous restorations and modifications including the addition of Baroque elements. It was built with stones from the area and has a facade with three distinct sections and two towers. The bell tower of the church was erected in 1731 and holds two bells. The first bell is the original one from the twelfth century and is known as “Beata”, which is the patron saint of the town. The second bell was placed during the 17th century and is known as “L’Oller”, in honour of Jacint Oller, a priest who has been linked to the church since the 1940’s. In 1895 the church underwent major renovations, which included the addition of an aisle on the right side of the building, a Gothic styled chamber on the left side and a porch in front of the church. The current main entrance is located at the porch and is decorated with sculptures of Saint Peter and his two disciples. The Church of Sant Pere Màrtir remains a place of importance to the city of Canillo and to all of Andorra, and is a great symbol of Andorran culture and heritage. It is an iconic site for pilgrims and tourists alike and a great reminder of the town's religious roots. The church has recently been restored and is open to the public for services and other events. Visit one of the famous monuments of Andorra with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. This church, dedicated to Saint Peter the Martyr, was built in the late 19th century. 2. The church was designed by the Catalan architect Domènech Sugrañes and it was built in the Neo-Gothic style. 3. The altar piece of the church, which was sculpted by the artist Rosario Soriano, depicts a martyrdom scene with Saint Peter the Martyr. 4. The belfry of the church is decorated with angel figures. 5. Inside the church, visitors can admire wooden works and stained glasses that were donated by local families over the years. 6. The exterior of the church was renovated in 2010. 7. Every year, during the Canillo festivals, a mass is celebrated in the church of Sant Pere Màrtir. One of the historical monuments of Andorra, it tells the story of a bygone era