Andorra may be more closely associated with ski resorts, mountains and shopping than with art, but you’d be surprised by the number of art museums and galleries it actually has. In fact, being so closely linked with its neighbour, Catalonia, it’s no wonder this tiny country has artistic inspiration. From small shop-galleries to art centres and important museums, here are Andorra’s top art galleries.
Museu Carmen Thyssen Andorra
Museum
The newest (inaugurated in March 2017) art museum and gallery in Andorra is the Museu Carmen Thyssen, which also has branches in Madrid and Málaga. The museum holds various temporary exhibitions of the works owned by the larger Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza collection.
Referred to by locals as the CAFE, this large art centre holds various temporary exhibitions throughout the year and also has a large collection of Romanesque artworks. Besides these, it also houses the Viladomat Museum, showcasing the work of Spanish sculptor Josep Viladomat, who lived in Escaldes for many years. The museum displays 140 of his elegant sculptures.
Located in the capital of Andorra, the Galeria de Pilar Riberaygua has been open since 1985, and aims to showcase quality, high-level artwork in Andorra, as well as encourage young and local talent. It displays works by local as well as internationally renowned artists such as the Catalan painter and sculptor Antoni Tàpies.
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Desig(n) Gallery
Art Gallery
A shop and gallery in one, its name plays on the Catalan word for desire and the English for design. Full of beautiful pieces by both established and up-and-coming artists, it’s a great place to browse or shop for a unique souvenir. You’ll find everything here from sculptures and photography to ceramics, wood and textiles.
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Located in the area of Santa Coloma, Art al Set Galeria opened in 2003 and since then has hosted many different changing exhibitions over the years. It showcases the works of local Andorran and Catalan avant-garde artists, and is more than simply a classic gallery, hosting everything from events and workshops to talks.
The Museum of Holy Art of Santa Eulàlia can be found in the village of Encamp, near the church of Santa Eulàlia. A type of art gallery, it displays exquisite pieces from various churches around the country. These objects include everything from textiles to paintings, and even gold and silver work. Showcasing skilled craftsmanship, some of the highlights of the museum include a Romanesque chandelier from Sant Romà de Vila and a 14th-century bronze censer.
Located in the capital of Andorra La Vella, the Llacuna Cultural Centre is a huge 5,000-square-metre space, housing the country’s Institute of Music, the School of Art and the School of Theatre and Dance. It also holds various events such as workshops and talks. One of its spaces is the B’Art gallery, which displays various changing art exhibitions and works by the students of the School of Art.
