Canillo

This is the first parish by order of protocol but also the largest in extension: 121 sq.km. (Andorra has a total surface area of 458 sq.km.). Its consists of the villages of Canillo, Soldeu, El Tarter, Sant Pere, Ransol, Els Plans, L'Aldosa, El Vilar, El Forn, Prats, Meritxell and Molleres.

Two points of immediate interest are that within its bounds there is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Meritxell, the patron saint of the Principality, whose feast day is held on 8 September. On this day the whole government of Andorra meets at Meritxell because it is also the national day of the Principality.

Meritxell

 

The second point is the Ice Palace of Andorra built beside the main road linking Andorra to France. The Ice Palace has a total surface area of 8000 sq.m. including an Olympic size ice rink (60x30 m.). It also houses a covered swimming pool (25x12,5 m.) at a constant temperature of 28° centigrade.

Canillo has one of the largest skiable areas in Andorra at the Soldeu-El Tarter ski resort.

 

Meritxell

 

The landscape is peaceful and combines old and new buildings. Canillo was the most important parish in the Principality for its natural resources and individual incomes but the growth of Andorra la Vella and Escaldes have overtaken it. However, Canillo maintains its historical privileges and, when the Syndics are absent, its Elder Councillor takes the chair at the General Council.