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The tiny Principality of Andorra is located in the eastern Pyrenees Mountains in southwestern Europe. Bounded by France and Spain, the country is one of the oldest nations in Europe. A wonderful travel destination for the enthusiasts of the natural beauty found across the rugged countryside the country has achieved prosperity due to the increasing revenues coming from the tourists.
For more than seven centuries, from 1278 to 1993, the ministate of Andorra was ruled jointly by French and Spanish leaders. In 1993 witnessed the modification of this feudal system. Once isolated, today the country has transformed into a parliamentary democracy.
Catalan is the official language of Andorra. The country is home
to two famous
Catalan writers, Michèle Gazier and Ramon Villeró.
Travel overview
The unspoilt beauty of Andorra attracts the tourists who throng the country in large number. You can explore some spectacular ski slopes in the country. While going from Spain to France, it is a must stop. The capital, Andorra la vella is a beautiful town, home to museums and a relaxed ambience. The spa town of Les Escaldes is another Andorra’s main attraction.
Andorra's shopping is known all over the world. Everything is prepared
to give the customer the leading role. The privileged tax system allows
very competitive prices. In the Principality you will also find Caldea,
the largest fun spa centre in the south of Europe, a water palace
situated at an altitude of 1000 m, with architecture and amenities
which make it a unique building.
Capital: Andorra la Vella
Location: Southwestern Europe, between France and Spain
Climate: temperate; snowy, cold winters and warm, dry summers
Total Area: 468 sq km
Total Population: 71,822
Population Growth Rate: 0.842%
Sex Ratio: 1.079 male(s)/female
Literacy: 100%
Ethnic Groups: Spanish, Andorran, Portuguese, French
Languages: Catalan (official), French, Castilian, Portuguese
Time Zone: UTC+ 1
Currency: euro
Neighbouring countries: France, Spain
Type of govt.: parliamentary democracy
Head of Govt.: President Albert Pintat Santolaria
Major Political Parties: Andorran Democratic Center Party or CDA,
Century 21 or S21, Liberal Party of Andorra or PLA, Social Democratic
Party or PS
Participation in International Organizations: CE, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM,
IFRCS, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ITU, OIF, OPCW, OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
UNWTO, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WTO (observer)
Major Agricultural Products: small quantities of rye, wheat, barley,
oats, vegetables; sheep Natural Resources & Minerals: hydropower,
mineral water, timber, iron ore, lead Industry & Transport: tourism
(particularly skiing), cattle raising, timber, banking, tobacco, furniture
Roadways: 269 km
Major Trade Partners: Spain, France
Exports: $148.7 million
Imports: $1.879 billion