Church of Sant Romà d'Erts, La Massana In Andorra: Overview,Prominent Features,History,Interesting facts


Overview:

The Church of Sant Romà d'Erts is located on top of a hill in the small mountain village of La Massana, in Andorra. The church was built in the late 15th century and is renowned for its Romanesque style and its elegant bell tower. The church is still in use today and is visited by many tourists. It has a historical and cultural significance for the locals as it is featured in the annual Patum festival. The church is also the burial place for several important figures, including Bishop Ramón de Perelloses and several Princes and Princesses of Andorra. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Andorra
Prominent Features:

The Church of Sant Romà d'Erts is a Romanesque and Gothic style church located in the ski village of La Massana in Andorra, which is near the French border. The 11th-century building is one of the oldest churches in Andorra, and a gem of a structure. The church is made of stone and features a bell tower and medieval-styled arcades. Inside, some remarkable features of the church include the main nave, which is a typical and impressive Gothic construction, and the small room that can be accessed via a hidden staircase. The chapel contains numerous frescoes and a brilliant multicoloured frieze, which makes it a must-see. Additionally, the church contains a traditional organ built in 1947. Other significant features of the church include its beautiful stained-glass windows and its unique collection of carpets. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Andorra.

History:

Sant Romà d’Erts in La Massana, is the oldest church in the parish of La Massana. It dates back to the 11th century. The church is dedicated to St. Romam, a martyr who died in Puy-de-Dôme, France, in 304 AD. The first written record of the church dates back to the year 1241, when it is mentioned in a document drawn up by the Bishop of Urgell, confirming the ecclesiastical borders of Andorra. The original church was of Romanesque style and is believed to have been built by the Knights Templar, who were then in power in the region. The Templar also built other constructions in the surroundings such as the castle of Cocull, mentioned in the same documents from 1241. In the 16th century, the church was enlarged and some adjustments were made. During the 18th century a Baroque bell tower was added and the church adopted a more Baroque style. In 1877, during the episcopate of Bishop Magí Pera, major renovations were made and the church was substantially enlarged. The main altar, which was from the 18th century, was replaced and the current sculpture of “Our Lady of Meritxell” was added. In 1883 Sant Romà d’Erts was declared a national monument and a new monastery was built next door, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This new monastery soon became an important religious center, hosting retreats and other religious activities. The interior of the church is decorated with several religious artwork. The main altarpiece is from the 19th century and features the image of the Virgin. There are also several paintings showing scenes from Jesus' life. The crypt beneath the main altarpiece holds the tombs of several important personalities, including the local prelates, the counts of Castellbò, and Bishop Desplà. Today the church is still used for religious services, especially for Christmas and Easter services. It is a popular tourist destination in Andorra and is a great example of the religious architecture in the region. Sources * http://www.visitandorra.com/en/what-to-see/cultural-heritage/romanesque/sant-roma-derts * https://www.aroundandorra.com/en/arinsal-santa-coloma * http://www.valmoresoalhama.com/ingles/santromaderts.html * https://cultura.gencat.cat/ca/detalls/edicte-declaratori-de-la-iglesia-parroquial-de-sant-roma-derts-de-la-massana-com-monument-nacional/ Visit one of the famous monuments of Andorra with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. It is the main church in La Massana, built in the mid-19th century and consecrated to St. Romanus, a patron saint of shepherds. 2. The church was designed in the modernist neo-Romanesque style with its two belfries standing out on both sides of the main façade. 3. The interior of the nave is decorated with andalusite and alabaster from which a copy of the Gothic Last Supper is made. 4. In one of the chapels inside the church, there is a sculpture of St. Romanus made by the La Massana sculptor Joachim Torra. 5. Sant Romà d'Erts is renowned for its Sunday Mass in which around two hundred faithful attend. 6. This yearly event is so popular that it enticed both locals and the prince of Andorra. It is composed of solemn music, hymns, and prayers, creating a beautiful atmosphere. 7. Once a year, the church organizes an event that brings together many Massana musicians to perform during the procession of the Trinity event. The Massana song, sung by the choir, is the culmination of the event. 8. Over the years, the Festival of the Cross has also become popular. This is a festival held in September, venerating the Cross that was found by shepherds in the mountains above Massana. During this event, Massanans climb up the mountain near Sant Romà d'Erts, enjoy a picnic and make a cross out of wood that is hung on a tree near the church in honor of Sant Romà. 9. During the event, Massanans usually processes around the church and bless the cross, before then happily enjoying it. 10. For more than twenty four years, the Troupe of Sant Romà d'Erts has been performing mystery plays. This is another traditional event held in the church which never ceases to amaze the locals and pilgrims. One of the historical monuments of Andorra, it tells the story of a bygone era

Explore Andorra most popular tourist destination with us. Church of Sant Romà d'Erts, La Massana In Andorra: Overview,Prominent Features,History,Interesting facts,which is 35.14 km away from Andorra main town, is the most popular destination to add in your travel wishlist.

  1. City:

    Andorra

  2. state:

    Andorra

  3. country:

    Andorra

  4. country code:

    AD

  5. postcode:

    400

Location:

Andorra Andorra

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