Geography

Andorra has an area of 181 square miles (468 square kilometers). The country consists of a cluster of mountain valleys whose streams unite to form the Valira River. The landscape is characterized by high peaks and deep valleys. Andorra has a large number of natural sources of hot water known as thermal rock springs. One of the largest is located in the scenic valley of Les Escaldes.

The climate of Andorra is generally dry, but the rainfall in spring and autumn can be heavy. In the higher elevations snow remains on the ground for several months. The temperature varies greatly, depending on altitude.

Plants and animals

In the late 20th century, the Andorran government began devoting a great deal of effort to conservation. It reintroduced several threatened animals, including species of trout and deer, to their former habitats. The government also set aside mountainous areas near water sources as protected habitats for wild boar, weasels, and other native animals.

People and culture

Most Andorrans are of Spanish origin. The country has traditionally had a strong connection with the region of Catalonia in northern Spain. Catalan is the official language.

In the highlands are found traditional small Andorran villages, with houses made of granite, wood, and slate. The larger villages are in the valleys, where economic growth has led to the development of modern buildings that contrast sharply with the traditional architecture.

Although the population of Andorra grew dramatically during the second half of the 20th century, only a small proportion of the new inhabitants became citizens. Most of the new residents chose to live in Andorra because of its low taxes.

Economy

Andorra traditionally had a pastoral and farming economy. Principal agricultural products included potatoes, cereals, and tobacco. Sheep and other livestock were also raised. Mineral products included iron and lead.

The economy of Andorra began to change in the 1950s, with shopping and year-round tourism becoming much more important. The government does not impose customs duties on products coming into the country. This makes the products less expensive than they are in neighboring countries, which has promoted Andorra as an international center of retail trade. Millions of shoppers from throughout Europe take advantage of the policy.

Tourism also has come to play a more important role in the economy. Some tourists go to Andorra to see the medieval churches, castles, and bridges. Others visit for winter sports, including skiing.

Andorra does not have its own monetary unit. Instead, both the French and Spanish currencies are used. With economic expansion, several banks have been established in association with French and Spanish investment firms.

History

The emperor Charlemagne captured Andorra from the Muslims in AD 803. In 819 Louis I the Pious, a son of Charlemagne, granted the inhabitants of the area a charter of liberties. Charlemagne's grandson, Charles II, gave Andorra to the counts of Urgel of Spain. From them it passed to the bishops of Urgel. Andorra's status as a coprincipality, a region under the control of two countries, originated in the late 13th century after a quarrel between the Spanish bishops of Urgel and the French heirs to the title of the count of Urgel. From then on, Andorra was governed jointly by representatives of the Spanish bishop of Urgel and of the French head of state. Andorra retained this arrangement until 1993. In March 1993 the citizens voted to adopt a new constitution that greatly reduced the power of the French and Spanish authorities. It also established separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. Population (2000 estimate), 66,700.