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Encamp

Encamp is a parish and municipality in the Principality of Andorra, situated in the eastern Pyrenees along the Valira d'Orient River valley, approximately 4 kilometers northeast of the capital, Andorra la Vella.^[1] The parish encompasses the main town of Encamp at an elevation of about 1,300 meters and several surrounding villages, including Pas de la Casa near the French border, with a total population of approximately 11,200 as of 2025.^[2] It serves as a key hub for mountain tourism, featuring access to the expansive Grandvalira ski domain via the Funicamp cable car system, and boasts a blend of natural landscapes, medieval heritage sites, and modern amenities that define its role in Andorra's economy.^[3]^[4] Historically, Encamp formed one of Andorra's original seven parishes, with roots tracing back to medieval times when the region was part of the co-principality established in 1278 between the Bishop of Urgell and the Count of Foix.^[5] Traditional livelihoods centered on pastoral farming, but post-World War II development shifted the focus to tourism, transforming Encamp into a vibrant center for winter sports and outdoor pursuits while preserving cultural landmarks like the 12th-century Romanesque Church of Sant Romà de les Bons and the Torre dels Moros defense tower.^[3] Today, Encamp's economy thrives on tourism, which accounts for a significant portion of Andorra's GDP, alongside retail and services, with the parish offering year-round attractions such as the National Automobile Museum, the Casa Cristo Ethnographic Museum, hiking trails like the Camí de les Pardines, and via ferrata routes.^[4]^[3] Its Mediterranean-mountain climate supports diverse activities, from skiing in winter to cultural festivals and local cuisine experiences in traditional bordes (rustic farmhouses), making it a quintessential Andorran destination that balances tradition and modernity.^[6]^[3]

History

Early settlement and medieval period

The region encompassing Encamp, situated in the eastern Pyrenees, bears evidence of early human activity dating back to prehistoric times, with archaeological findings indicating nomadic Iberoroman communities around the 2nd century BC at sites like Roc de l'Oral, reflecting seasonal pastoral and trade movements through the mountain passes.^[7] Roman influences are evident from the 3rd to 4th centuries AD, including remnants of a mausoleum discovered at the Sant Marc i Santa Maria church, suggesting the area served as a waypoint along Roman routes in the Hispania Tarraconensis province.^[7] Encamp's medieval history begins with its first documented mention as "Hencampo" in 860 AD, during the consecration act of the Santa Maria de la Seu d’Urgell Cathedral, establishing it as a recognized parish within the Diocese of Urgell.^[7] By the 10th century, ties to Catalan counts strengthened; in 952, the Count of Urgell donated lands to Bishop Guisad II, integrating the area into feudal structures under Urgell oversight.^[7] Further consolidation occurred in 1083 when Counts Ermengol IV and Adelaida granted jurisdictional rights to Bishop Bernat Guillem, solidifying ecclesiastical control amid feudal lordships.^[7] Key medieval events shaped Encamp's governance and identity. On January 23, 1164, Bishop Bernat Roger consecrated the church of Sant Romà de les Bons, marking a significant religious milestone for the parish.^[7] In 1162 and 1176, Encamp representatives joined Andorran inhabitants in signing concordats with the Bishop of Urgell, affirming loyalty and resolving disputes over rights and obligations.^[7] By 1278, Encamp, as part of the Andorran valleys, integrated into the co-principality through the first paréage agreement between the Bishop of Urgell and the Count of Foix, balancing feudal influences from both Catalan and French lords while granting the valleys semi-autonomous status.^[8] This period saw Encamp evolve from a peripheral settlement into a structured parish, with ongoing pastoral visits, such as the 1312 episcopal inspection, underscoring its role in regional ecclesiastical administration.^[7]

20th-century developments

In the early 20th century, Encamp, like much of Andorra, began transitioning from a predominantly agricultural economy reliant on livestock and limited arable land to one incorporating modern infrastructure and services. The construction of the Engolasters hydroelectric power station in the parish of Encamp, which began operations in 1934, marked a pivotal development by providing the principality with a reliable electricity supply and enabling energy exports to neighboring countries.^[9] This project, involving labor recruited from Spain, not only powered local growth but also symbolized Andorra's entry into industrialization, reducing dependence on traditional farming practices that had dominated the region for centuries.^[9] The establishment of Radio Andorra in 1939 further highlighted Encamp's emerging role in international communications, with its broadcasting center constructed in the parish the previous year. Operating until 1981, the station gained prominence for its multilingual programming in Catalan, Spanish, and French, becoming a cultural phenomenon in the 1950s and 1960s through popular presenters and a vast archive of over 200,000 recordings.^[10] Its significance was amplified during World War II, when Andorra's neutrality allowed Radio Andorra to serve as the only private European station broadcasting in French, allegedly transmitting coded messages via songs to aid resistance efforts.^[10] Meanwhile, Andorra's strict neutrality during the war (1939–1945) transformed the principality into a key smuggling route for goods between Vichy France and Francoist Spain, boosting Encamp's local economy through cross-border trade without direct involvement in the conflict.^[11] Postwar recovery accelerated Encamp's modernization, with the parish benefiting from Andorra's broader economic boom driven by tourism and retail. In the mid-20th century, the shift to a service-based economy gained momentum, as low taxes and duty-free status attracted shoppers from France and Spain, fostering vibrant border trade.^[12] This period saw significant population influx, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, when Andorra's overall population grew from approximately 13,000 in 1960 to nearly 20,000 by 1970 and over 38,000 by 1980, fueled by immigrant workers and economic opportunities in Encamp's expanding sectors.^[13] The introduction of the first ski lift in 1957 nationwide further propelled tourism, drawing visitors to Encamp's mountainous terrain and solidifying its contemporary identity as a gateway to recreational and commercial activities.^[9]

Geography

Location and topography

Encamp is situated in the eastern part of the Principality of Andorra, with its central coordinates at 42°32′10″N 1°34′58″E. The parish shares borders with the French department of Ariège to the east and the Spanish comarca of Pallars Sobirà (Catalonia) to the southeast, forming part of Andorra's rugged Pyrenean frontier.^[14] The parish encompasses a total area of 74 km², characterized by dramatic topographic variation typical of the eastern Pyrenees. Elevations range from 1,238 m in the main town of Encamp to the highest point at Pic dels Pessons, reaching 2,865 m, which offers panoramic views over the surrounding alpine terrain. The landscape is dominated by the Valira d'Orient river valley, which bisects the parish and supports a network of steep slopes and forested hillsides.^[15]^[16]^[17] Key natural features include the high-altitude Estany de l’Illa lake at approximately 2,500 m, a glacial remnant nestled amid rocky cirques and serving as a focal point for the parish's mountainous hydrology. The encircling Pyrenean peaks, including those in the Comapedrosa massif vicinity, contribute to a topography of narrow valleys, plateaus, and escarpments that define Encamp's physical identity. Within this diverse terrain lie the parish's primary settlements: the central town of Encamp, the border village of Pas de la Casa, and smaller communities such as Vila and Les Bons.^[18]^[19]

Climate

Encamp exhibits an oceanic climate (Cfb) under the Köppen classification, characterized by mild summers and cool winters influenced by its position in the Pyrenees mountains.^[20] The average annual temperature stands at 9.8°C, with total precipitation averaging 805.4 mm annually, distributed relatively evenly throughout the year but with peaks in spring and autumn.^[21] Seasonal variations are pronounced due to the parish's elevation around 1,300 meters, resulting in mild summers where temperatures rarely exceed typical highs of 20–25°C, though an extreme of 36°C was recorded on June 29, 1935. Winters are cold, with average lows around -5°C, and a record low of -16°C on February 2, 1956, often accompanied by snowfall that supports winter sports activities.^[22] Microclimatic effects from surrounding high peaks enhance orographic precipitation and create localized cooler conditions, leading to reliable snow cover in higher areas from December to April, averaging several meters in depth at ski elevations.^[23] Data from long-term records, including those analyzed by Météo-France and local stations, indicate slight warming trends over recent decades, with an increase of approximately 0.2°C per decade since 1950, particularly affecting winter temperatures and reducing average snow duration.^[24] This warming is consistent with broader Pyrenean patterns, where maximum temperatures have risen faster than minima, contributing to earlier snowmelt.^[22]

Demographics

Population trends

The population of Encamp parish stood at 11,094 in 2011, reflecting a significant expansion from earlier decades driven by economic opportunities in the region.^[25] This growth pattern began accelerating in the 1970s, as the development of tourism infrastructure created numerous jobs, attracting workers and contributing to a steady demographic rise across Andorra's parishes, including Encamp. By the early 2000s, the parish had more than doubled its population from levels recorded in the 1980s, underscoring the impact of seasonal and year-round employment in hospitality and related sectors.^[25] Recent estimates place Encamp's population at 12,826 as of 2023, aligned with broader Andorran demographic trends showing modest recovery and stabilization following global disruptions.^[25] While the parish experienced steady increases through the 2010s, it saw modest growth in the post-COVID period, with ongoing immigration from neighboring Spain and France, primarily for work in service industries, helping offset natural population dynamics and supporting annual national growth rates around 1–2%.^[26] Encamp maintains a population density of approximately 385 people per km² as of 2023, with higher concentrations in the central urban area of the main town compared to sparser rural outskirts and higher-altitude villages.^[25] This distribution highlights the parish's role as a hub for residential and commercial activity within Andorra, though an aging population—mirroring national patterns where the share of residents aged 65 and older rose from 11% in 2010 to 15% in 2024—poses challenges for long-term sustainability.^[27]

Ethnic and linguistic composition

Encamp's population reflects the broader cultural mosaic of Andorra, characterized by a mix of native Andorrans and immigrants primarily from neighboring countries. Native Andorrans, who are ethnically and linguistically tied to Catalan heritage, comprise approximately 48% of the national population, with significant expatriate communities from Spain (25%), Portugal (11%), and France (5%), alongside smaller groups from other European nations and beyond.^[4] This diversity stems from Andorra's strategic position between Spain and France, fostering cross-border ties that influence local demographics in parishes like Encamp. The linguistic profile of Encamp is multilingual, with Catalan serving as the official language and the primary tongue for native Andorrans. However, Spanish is widely spoken due to historical and economic links with Spain, while French is prevalent among residents near the northern border areas such as Pas de la Casa, supporting tourism and daily interactions. Portuguese is also common within immigrant communities, contributing to a trilingual environment that facilitates communication in a border region.^[4] According to linguistic surveys, Castilian Spanish is the most frequently used language overall (43%), followed by Catalan (36%), underscoring the practical dominance of these Romance languages in everyday life.^[4] Immigration to Encamp and Andorra more broadly accelerated in the post-1960s period, driven by an economic boom in tourism, construction, and retail that attracted workers from the Iberian Peninsula. This influx primarily involved migrants from Spain and Portugal seeking employment opportunities, transforming Encamp from a rural settlement into a vibrant parish with international residents. Smaller communities from other EU countries, including France and more recently from Eastern Europe, have since integrated, adding to the ethnic tapestry without altering the predominant Iberian influences.^[28] The population growth during this era, from around 13,000 in 1960 to over 80,000 by the 2020s, was largely fueled by this immigration, with net migration rates remaining positive into recent years.^[29] Cultural integration in Encamp is evident through multilingual practices that accommodate this diversity, including bilingual or trilingual signage in public spaces, shops, and tourist facilities using Catalan, Spanish, and French. Education systems emphasize Catalan as the medium of instruction while incorporating exposure to other languages, promoting social cohesion among residents of varied origins. This approach reflects Andorra's commitment to preserving its native identity while embracing the contributions of expatriate communities to local economy and society.^[28]

Economy

Tourism sector

Encamp's tourism sector is predominantly driven by winter sports, with the parish serving as a primary gateway to the Grandvalira ski resort, the largest in the Pyrenees and one of the largest in Europe, offering 215 kilometers of skiable slopes across 138 runs. Accessible via the Funicamp aerial cable car system, one of Europe's longest at over 6 km in length, this infrastructure connects visitors directly from Encamp to the high-altitude sectors, attracting skiers and snowboarders from across the continent during the winter season. The resort's extensive terrain, including beginner-friendly greens and challenging blacks, supports a wide range of abilities, bolstering Encamp's reputation as a premier alpine destination.^[30]^[14] In summer, the focus shifts to outdoor pursuits, particularly hiking in the nearby Vall de Sorteny Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse flora with over 700 plant species and well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels. Additional attractions include access to thermal springs at Caldea, Southern Europe's largest spa complex located just a short drive away in Escaldes-Engordany, where visitors can enjoy therapeutic hot pools and wellness treatments sourced from Andorra's natural geothermal waters. These activities complement the parish's rugged topography, promoting year-round nature-based tourism.^[31] The border location of Pas de la Casa, a key village within Encamp parish, enhances the sector through duty-free retail shopping, drawing international buyers for tax-exempt purchases of electronics, alcohol, tobacco, and luxury goods under EU allowances. This commerce integrates seamlessly with tourism, as shoppers often combine visits with skiing or hiking excursions.^[32] Tourism constitutes the primary economic driver in Encamp, mirroring Andorra's broader reliance where it accounts for up to 80% of GDP, with the parish experiencing pronounced seasonal employment surges during winter peaks due to ski operations and visitor influxes. This dominance supports local jobs in hospitality, guiding, and retail, while fostering infrastructure investments like sports complexes for elite training.^[33]^[14]

Energy and retail industries

Encamp's energy sector centers on hydroelectric power generation, with the Escaldes Hydroelectric Power Station serving as a key facility in the parish. Located in the Engolasters area along the Valira d'Orient river valley, the station draws water from Lake Engolasters reservoir and was constructed starting in 1930, with operations commencing in August 1934. Operated by Forces Elèctriques d'Andorra (FEDA), the national utility, it features three Pelton-type turbines (two of 14 MW and one of 17 MW, the latter added in 2008) with a total installed capacity of 45 MW, contributing to approximately 40% of Andorra's domestic electricity production. This infrastructure has contributed to the country's energy self-sufficiency since the mid-20th century, with hydroelectric sources generating nearly all of Andorra's domestic power requirements through renewable means. In October 2025, FEDA extended its energy security through a power purchase agreement with Endesa, covering 30% of consumption at fixed prices until 2037.^[34]^[35]^[36] In the 2020s, sustainability initiatives have focused on upgrading the hydroelectric system to enhance renewable efficiency and reduce environmental impact. FEDA has partnered with international entities, including a 2023 agreement with EDF to renovate and maintain existing hydropower projects while exploring further developments. These efforts align with Andorra's broader push toward 100% renewable energy production, emphasizing modernization of aging infrastructure like the Encamp station to adapt to climate challenges and optimize output.^[37]^[38] The retail and manufacturing sectors in Encamp support local commerce through small-scale operations and cross-border trade, leveraging Andorra's favorable tax regime for exchanges with Spain and France. Retail activities include everyday goods and services for residents, distinct from visitor-oriented outlets, while manufacturing encompasses niche production such as wood products and tobacco-related items by local firms. Nationally, retail trade employs around 24% of the workforce, serving as a secondary economic pillar after services, with similar patterns in Encamp where it sustains community needs and facilitates regional commerce. Energy and utilities account for about 0.4% of national employment but hold localized importance in Encamp due to the hydroelectric operations.^[39]^[40]^[41]

Culture and landmarks

Historical sites and heritage

Encamp boasts a rich array of historical sites rooted in its medieval past, particularly its Romanesque churches, which exemplify the architectural influences of the 11th and 12th centuries in the Pyrenees. These structures, built with local stone and featuring characteristic semicircular arches and barrel vaults, reflect the parish's role as a key settlement during the early medieval period.^[42]^[43] Among the most prominent is the Església de Sant Romà de les Bons, consecrated in 1164 and located in the Les Bons neighborhood. This Romanesque church, constructed in the Lombard style with a single rectangular nave and semicircular apse, forms part of a larger historical ensemble that includes the ruins of a 12th-century castle, offering insights into feudal life in Andorra.^[44] Other notable Romanesque churches include the Església de Santa Eulàlia in the main town, dating to the late 11th century and distinguished by its tall Lombard bell tower—the highest of its kind in Andorra—and the 12th-century Església de Sant Miquel d'Engolasters, known for its simple yet robust stone facade, highlighting the enduring simplicity of Pyrenean religious architecture.^[43]^[42] Traditional Pyrenean architecture is vividly represented in Encamp's Vila district and the historic core of the main town, where clusters of stone houses with slate roofs and wooden balconies evoke rural life from the 17th to 19th centuries. These sturdy, low-rise dwellings, often built from local granite and schist, were designed to withstand harsh mountain winters and integrated seamlessly with the landscape. Stone bridges complement this heritage, facilitating trade and pilgrimage routes through the valley.^[3] Local museums provide intimate exhibits on Andorran folklore, preserving artifacts that connect Encamp's heritage to broader national traditions. The Casa Cristo Ethnographic Museum, housed in a restored 19th-century residence in the Mosquera neighborhood, displays everyday objects, furniture, and tools from rural Andorran households, illustrating customs like tobacco cultivation and pastoral life. These minor collections integrate with national heritage efforts, such as those managed by the Andorran Museums network, to safeguard intangible cultural elements like festivals and crafts.^[45] Preservation initiatives in Encamp emphasize the cultural significance of its Pyrenean valleys, with sites like the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley—partially encompassing Encamp's southeastern edges—recognized on UNESCO's World Heritage List since 2004 for its glacial landscapes and traditional land-use practices. Additionally, Andorra's "The State of the Pyrenees" tentative list considers broader valley ensembles, including Encamp's Romanesque sites, for potential inscription to protect transboundary cultural landscapes spanning the Pyrenees. Local authorities, through the Comú d'Encamp, support restoration projects to maintain these landmarks against modern development pressures.^[46]

Radio transmitter and media history

The transmitter site for Radio Andorra, a pioneering medium-wave broadcasting facility, is located at an elevation of 1,600 meters near Lake Engolasters in the parish of Encamp, Andorra, with the antenna positioned at coordinates 42°31′18″N 1°34′10″E.^[47]^[48] Construction of the infrastructure began in 1938, with operations commencing on August 7, 1939, marking the launch of Andorra's first international radio station.^[10]^[48] During its operational years, Radio Andorra served as an international broadcaster, transmitting in French, Spanish, and Catalan to audiences across Europe, particularly evading strict Spanish censorship under the Franco regime by operating from Andorra's neutral territory. The station broadcast from the Encamp facility until March 26, 1981, when it ceased operations due to licensing disputes and frequency allocation conflicts with French authorities, who contested its use of unallocated wavelengths.^[48] Technically, the setup featured a 200 kW medium-wave transmitter capable of reaching millions, underscoring its engineering significance for the era.^[49] Today, the remnants of the transmitter, including the original antenna mast, stand as a historical monument, preserved amid the mountainous terrain near Lake Engolasters, while the original broadcasting building in Encamp has been designated Andorran cultural heritage and houses a collection of over 200,000 music discs.^[47]^[10] Culturally, Radio Andorra played a pivotal role in the mid-20th century by diffusing popular music and fostering a sense of Andorran identity, becoming a beloved phenomenon that trained generations of broadcasters and symbolized the principality's unique geopolitical position.^[10]

Transport

Road infrastructure

Encamp's road infrastructure is dominated by the CG-2 highway, a key component of Andorra's national road network that traverses the parish from south to north. This route connects Encamp directly to the capital, Andorra la Vella, via the adjacent Escaldes-Engordany parish, and extends northward through Canillo to the French border crossing at Pas de la Casa, facilitating essential cross-border travel and commerce. The CG-2, part of Andorra's approximately 300 km of general roads managed by the Department of Transportation, supports daily commuting and tourism flows in this mountainous region.^[50]^[51] A critical element of connectivity is the Dos Valires Tunnel, a 2.922 km twin-tube structure that links Encamp with La Massana parish to the west, including access toward Anyós, by traversing the Valira valleys and avoiding steep, circuitous surface roads. Opened in 2012, this infrastructure significantly shortens travel times between the eastern and western parts of northern Andorra, enhancing regional accessibility. Ongoing improvements to the CG-2 within Encamp, including phases of widening and rectification such as the construction of parallel false tunnels and buttressed walls near the Valira Nova area, aim to boost capacity, safety, and visual integration with the landscape.^[52]^[53] Public transport complements the road network with reliable bus services. Locally, line L2 provides frequent shuttles between Encamp and Andorra la Vella, operating every 20 minutes from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. to serve residents and visitors within the parish and beyond. For longer distances, international buses depart from Encamp's station to Barcelona (approximately 3.5 hours) and Toulouse (about 3 hours), operated by providers like Andbus, offering economical options for travel to Spain and France.^[54]^[55]^[56] The parish's alpine topography poses ongoing maintenance challenges, particularly during winter when heavy snowfall and potential avalanches necessitate rigorous snow clearance operations and drift prevention measures to ensure road safety and continuity. These efforts, coordinated by national authorities, address snow accumulation on high-altitude routes like the CG-2, minimizing disruptions in a region prone to severe weather.^[57]

Cable car and ski access systems

The Funicamp, a funitel-type cable car system, serves as the primary aerial link in Encamp, connecting the town center at approximately 1,300 meters elevation to the Solanelles sector of the Grandvalira ski resort at around 2,090 meters.^[58] This 6-kilometer route, one of Europe's longest single-span cable car lines, was constructed in 1998 and features 32 cabins, each accommodating up to 24 passengers for enhanced stability in windy conditions via dual haul ropes.^[59]^[60] The system operates continuously, transporting visitors in about 15 to 25 minutes depending on speed settings of up to 7 meters per second, thereby facilitating efficient access to high-altitude slopes without reliance on winding mountain roads.^[58]^[59] Within Encamp parish boundaries, additional ski access is provided by a network of chairlifts and smaller gondolas integrated into the Grandvalira domain, supporting both winter skiing and summer hiking activities. The Encamp sector includes three fixed-grip chairlifts and three surface lifts, enabling progression from beginner-friendly terrain near Solanelles to intermediate runs, with the overall setup allowing seamless connectivity to adjacent resort areas.^[61] These installations emphasize reliability and scenic transport, with chairlifts like the Solanelles model offering fixed-grip designs for steady ascents over varied topography.^[62] The Funicamp's technical capacity stands at 3,000 passengers per hour, significantly easing peak-season traffic by diverting skiers from vehicular routes and promoting sustainable tourism flow in the parish.^[63] Recent upgrades, including the addition of 10 new cabins in 2021, have further boosted efficiency and comfort.^[64] In the 2020s, expansions under the Grandvalira Resorts umbrella—following the 2019 integration of Ordino Arcalís and the 2021 partnership with Pal Arinsal—have extended year-round operations across former Vallnord sectors, transforming Encamp's access systems into multi-season hubs for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking with unified ticketing and enhanced trail connectivity.^[65]^[66] This evolution supports broader environmental goals by minimizing road use during non-winter periods, with the Funicamp running daily for pedestrian passes that include summer excursions to elevations over 2,500 meters.^[67]^[68]

Society

Education system

Encamp's education system aligns with Andorra's multilingual public framework, providing free and compulsory education from ages 6 to 16 through three parallel systems: the Andorran (Catalan-medium), Spanish, and French.^[69] These systems cater to the parish's diverse population, with institutions offering preschool through secondary levels to ensure accessibility for residents. The Andorran public system operates the primary institution for the parish, including the Escola Andorrana d'Encamp for maternal and primary education (ages 2-11) and the Escola Andorrana de Segona Ensenyança d'Encamp for secondary education (ages 12-16).^[70] Complementary international options include the Escuela Española de la Vall d'Orient, which follows the Spanish curriculum for primary levels, and the École Primaire Française d'Encamp, providing French-national primary education.^[71]^[72] While Encamp lacks traditional universities, residents access Andorra's higher education offerings, such as the Vatel Andorra higher education institute in the parish, specializing in hospitality management.^[73] Educational policies emphasize a trilingual curriculum in the Andorran system, integrating Catalan as the primary language alongside mandatory Spanish and French instruction to mirror local demographics.^[74] In 2018, a Council of Europe delegation visited Andorra, including Encamp's schools, to evaluate the implementation of "Competences for Democratic Culture," commending the system's inclusivity and efforts to foster democratic values among students.^[75] This reflects broader policies promoting equitable access and cultural integration in classrooms.^[76]

Notable residents

Verònica Canals i Riba (born October 29, 1970, in Encamp) is an Andorran businesswoman and politician who served as Minister of Tourism from May 2019 to April 2023, overseeing initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and cultural heritage in the Principality. She holds a degree in economics and previously worked in the private sector before entering politics with the Democrats for Andorra party. Her tenure focused on enhancing Andorra's international visibility through events and digital strategies.^[77]^[78] Álvaro Rodríguez Areny (born February 22, 1991, in Encamp) is an Andorran film director and assistant director known for his work on projects such as the short film Wolves (2016) and Le Blizzard (2019). He has contributed to various international productions, blending narrative storytelling with visual innovation. Rodríguez Areny's career highlights the growing creative scene in Andorra's smaller parishes. Alex Abella Garcia (born October 30, 1998, in Encamp) is an Andorran basketball player who represented his country in youth international competitions, including the FIBA U16 European Championship Division C in 2014 and the U18 event in 2016. Standing at 1.85 meters, he played as a point guard and later transitioned into sports management, currently serving as marketing and sponsorship manager for the Andorran Football Federation. His early athletic achievements underscore Encamp's role in nurturing young talents in team sports.^[79] Josep Carles Laínez (born 1970 in Valencia, Spain) is a writer and journalist residing in Encamp, where he contributes to local media as a columnist for El Periòdic d'Andorra. His works often explore Catalan culture, history, and contemporary Andorran society, with publications including essays and opinion pieces on regional identity. Laínez's long-term association with Encamp has integrated him into the parish's intellectual community.

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Encamp is a parish (administrative division) and town, 4 km north-east of Andorra La Vella and close to the French border at Pas de la Casa (2085 m).<|control11|><|separator|>
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Encamp is a parish with about 12,000 inhabitants, located at almost 1,300m, and is the only parish with a town facing the Atlantic.
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### Summary of Encamp Parish and General Andorra Parishes Information
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Pic dels Pessons has an elevation of about 2,865 meters above sea level and is the highest peak in the Encamp parish.
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Encamp, in Andorra, is a parish located at 1300m with access to Grandvalira ... 74 km². postal code: AD200. elevation above sea level: 1,238 m. Sources of ...
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Area: 74 km². Population: 13 521 (2011). Currency. Currency Converter. Andorra ... In the geographical center of Andorra, the town of Encamp – home to ...
[26]
Andorra: Parishes & Major Places - Population Statistics, Maps ...
Population [2023] – official estimate. 464 km² Area. 183.4/km² Population ... Encamp, ENC, 8,326. 4, Sant Julià de Lòria, JUL, 7,962. 5, La Massana, MAS, 5,979. 6 ...
[27]
Andorra Population (1950-2025) - Macrotrends
Total population for Andorra in 2023 was 80,856, a 1.44% increase from 2022. Total population for Andorra in 2022 was 79,705, a 1.71% increase from 2021.<|separator|>
[28]
Principality of Andorra: Selected Issues in - IMF eLibrary
Apr 11, 2025 · Andorra is undergoing a rapid demographic transformation as its population ages. Aging is expected to put significant pressure on the ...
[29]
Fiscal Implications of Aging in Andorra: Pension and Healthcare ...
May 9, 2025 · From 2010 to 2024, the share of the population aged 65 or older increased from 11 percent to 15 percent, while the proportion of children ...
[30]
Andorra - Minority Rights Group
Andorra's population includes Andorrans 36,526 (45.5 per cent), Spanish 21,348 (26.6 per cent), Portuguese 10,352 (12.9 per cent) and French 4,200 (5.2 per cent) ...
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Net migration - Andorra - World Bank Open Data
Net migration - Andorra. World Population Prospects, United Nations ( UN ), publisher: UN Population Division ... 1960. 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 ...Missing: growth | Show results with:growth
[32]
Grandvalira, more than 200 skiable kilometres in Andorra
Grandvalira is the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees and one of the largest in Europe, boasting 138 slopes and covering an area of 215 kilometres.
[33]
Turisme Encamp i El Pas de la Casa
Encamp has positioned itself as a quality sports tourism destination, hosting elite teams at the Encamp Sports and Sociocultural Complex and the Pas de la Casa ...
[34]
Caldea Spa: Thermal Waters and Treatments in Andorra
Discover the best spa with thermal waters and treatments. In Caldea, Andorra, relax, enjoy and live a unique experience.
[35]
Shopping in Pas de la Casa & Andorra
Duty Free Allowances ; Tobacco & Cigarettes - 300 cigarettes or 150 cigars (under 3g each) or 75 cigars (over 3g each) or 400g of pipe tobacco ; Alcohol - 1.5l of ...
[36]
The Economic Evolution of Andorra: From Tourism to Digital ...
Oct 14, 2024 · Andorra shifted from tourism, where it contributed up to 80% of GDP, to digital commerce, diversifying income sources and creating new ...
[37]
Escaldes Hydroelectric Power Station - Wikipedia
Construction of the power station and Engolasters Dam began in 1930 and the power station with two 14 MW generators was commissioned in August 1934. Beginning ...
[38]
Andorra | Encyclopedia.com
Throughout the Middle Ages and modern times up to World War II, Andorra remains outside the mainstream of European history, with limited ties to countries ...
[39]
ANDORRA - A GREAT PLACE FOR SKIING & DISTRICT HEATING
Jan 2, 2021 · About FEDA. FEDA is the public corporation that manages the power grid in Andorra, producing nearly all the country's electricity and ...Missing: self- | Show results with:self-
[40]
EDF-Andorra agreement could see additional hydro development
Feb 3, 2023 · EDF and the Andorran Government are set to work together to renovate and maintain hydropower projects and review plans for the development ...Missing: self- | Show results with:self-
[41]
Powering Andorra's sustainable energy future
FEDA and Hitachi Energy aim for sustainable energy in Andorra, with a substation designed to integrate with nature, reduce load, and be renewable ready.Missing: Valira Orient
[42]
[PDF] Andorra in Figures 2017 - Andorra Business
Andorra is divided politically into seven parishes which are, in the traditional order of protocol: Canillo, Encamp, Ordino, La. Massana, Andorra ...
[43]
Discover Manufacturing companies in Encamp, Andorra - Dun ...
Detailed info on Manufacturing companies in Encamp, Andorra, including financial statements, sales and marketing contacts, top competitors, and firmographic ...
[44]
Discover Other Wood Product Manufacturing companies in Encamp ...
Find detailed information on Other Wood Product Manufacturing companies in Encamp, Andorra, including financial statements, sales and marketing contacts, ...
[45]
Romanesque art | Guiand | Tourist Guide | Andorra
The San Miguel de Engolasters' Church is one of the most known in the Principality. It is located in Encamp and dates back to the 12th century. The ...
[46]
Churches in Andorra
At 1635 metres above sea level, it was built in the 20th century although its foundations date back to medieval times (1176), as can be seen in the image of the ...
[47]
Saint Romà of les Bons - GUIAND Andorra
Jun 16, 2022 · Located nearby the ruins of the old Castle of Les Bons, in the parish of Encamp, the church of San Romà de les Bons was built in the middle of the 12th century.Missing: historical | Show results with:historical
[48]
The bridge of La Margineda, a medieval monument very close to the ...
Apr 5, 2024 · The Margineda Bridge is a Romanesque monument that can be seen from the foot of the main road of Andorra.
[49]
Museums - Visit Andorra
The Holy Art Museum is located in Encamp, alongside the parish church of Santa Eulàlia. The Andorra miniatures Museum in Ordino is one of the country's many ...Missing: folklore | Show results with:folklore
[50]
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley - UNESCO World Heritage Centre
The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is an exceptional geographical unit located in the south-eastern part of the Principality of Andorra, in the heart of the ...Gallery · Maps · Videos · Documents<|control11|><|separator|>
[51]
Encamp topographic map, elevation, terrain
Being at an elevation of 1,023 m (3,356 ft), it is the highest capital city in Europe and a popular ski resort. The city shares a tiny border area with Spain.Missing: geography borders sources
[52]
Encamp - All PYRENEES
Mar 2, 2024 · Encamp (Andorra, Pyrenees) is located 7 km north from the capital Andorra La Vella. The city of Encamp is the capital of the eponymous district of Andorra.
[53]
Photos - Radio Andorra - F5NSL
It currently operates at a power of 200 kW. After completion of current works, its output will be increased to 400 kW. Generators room, and ...
[54]
GIS application for the management of the paving in the Principat d ...
The Department of Transportation of the Government of Andorra manages a road network of almost 300 km of general roads in a country with an average altitude ...
[55]
Driving in Andorra - Autotraveler.ru
There are no motorways in Andorra. There are two main roads out of Andorra la Vella are the CG-1 to the Spanish border, and the CG-2 to the French border via ...Missing: Encamp infrastructure<|control11|><|separator|>
[56]
Dos Valires Tunnel in Andorra - PEDELTA
It is the largest infrastructure project in Andorra to date. The two parallel tunnels carry two lanes each. They are connected by a central gallery and eleven ...Missing: 2025 | Show results with:2025<|control11|><|separator|>
[57]
Widening and rectification of the CG2, phase 5 Encamp (Andorra)
The project includes earthworks and the construction of a buttressed wall anchored by reinforced concrete, the interior facilities, the infrastructure for the ...Missing: highway | Show results with:highway
[58]
Public transport network - Visit Andorra
Public transport network ; Line 1. Escaldes-Engordany / Sant Julià de Lòria ; Line 2. Andorra la Vella / Encamp ; Line 3. Andorra la Vella / Soldeu ; Line 4.
[59]
How to get around the Principality of Andorra by bus - encamp.ad
PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK TO GET AROUND THE COUNTRY. You can reach the seven parrishes of Andorra by way of the many regular bus services.
[60]
Buses between Barcelona and Andorra and more destinations
Arrival at Andorra ; 12:45h, Barcelona, 16:00h ; 13:45h, Toulouse, 17:45h ; 14:00h, Lleida, 16:15h ; 14:45h, Barcelona, 18:00h.Timetable and fares · Services · Contact · Where can you find us?
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[PDF] GENERAL REPORT OF THE 14th INTERNATIONAL WINTER ROAD ...
Avalanches and snowdrifts are a chief cause for concern among facility managers and received attention at the Congress, which included an. Andorran paper ...
[62]
Funicamp 1 - Skiresort.info
Funicamp 1 (YOC 1998). Circulating ropeway/gondola lift at the ski resort Grandvalira – Pas de la Casa/Grau Roig/Soldeu/El Tarter/Canillo/Encamp.
[63]
Encamp, access to ski slopes from Funicamp - Grandvalira
The Funicamp, a 6 km-long gondola lift, joins the town of Encamp with the area of Solanelles in just 15 minutes. Solanelles is where you'll find the top of the ...Encamp Sector · How To Get To Encamp · Activities And What To Do In...
[64]
Funicamp in Andorra - TIERIENT.COM
Address: AD200 Encamp, Andorra · Working hours: 9.00-17.00 · Number of cabins: 32 · Capacity: 24 people · Length: 6 km.
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Encamp Piste Map Free downloadable piste maps.
Encamp Ski Resort in Brief ; Parks & Pipes: 1 Childrens Area ; Number of Ski Lifts: 7 ; Type of Ski Lifts: 1 Cable Cars, 3 Chair Lifts, 3 Button Lifts ...
[66]
Solanelles - Skiresort.info
Solanelles: Chairlift at the ski resort Grandvalira – Pas de la Casa/Grau Roig/Soldeu/El Tarter/Canillo/Encamp, 4pers. Chairlift (fixed-grip)
[67]
Ski rental Funicamp 1 (Encamp) - Skiresort.info
Funicamp 1 (YOC 1998). 24pers. Funitel - wind stable gondola lift with two parallel haul ropes at a distance. Length: 3652 m · Carrying capacity/hour: 3000Missing: cabins | Show results with:cabins
[68]
Grandvalira invests 6.7 million euros in a New Ski Season full of ...
Rating 9.7/10 (201,782) · Discover prices and offers for upcoming datesNov 18, 2021 · ... capacity of its ski lifts. This year, 10 new cabins have been added to Funicamp with which the passenger capacity continues to be increased ...
[69]
Ordino leaves Vallnord to integrate fully with Grandvalira
May 16, 2019 · Ordino Arcalis is leaving the Vallnord brand to integrate fully with Grandvalira. Will Pal Arinsal remain with the Vallnord brand?Missing: expansions Encamp round
[70]
Pal-Arinsal Joining Forces With Grandvalira - Andorra Resorts
Oct 1, 2021 · It has been announced that Pal-Arinsal and Grandvalira have reached an agreement to join together for the benefit of both ski areas.Missing: integration expansions 2020s<|control11|><|separator|>
[71]
Funicamp. Cable car in Andorra - Grandvalira
The Funicamp facilities have a covered parking lot with a capacity for 500 vehicles and an outdoor parking lot, both with daily rates. ... From 8.45 am to 5.30 pm ...
[72]
Funicamp: the longest cable car in Europe - encamp.ad
Funicamp is one of Europe's longest cable cars, taking you to 2,502 meters in under 20 minutes, connecting Encamp to ski slopes and Grandvalira.
[73]
Andorra's School System | Andorra Guides
Andorra has free, compulsory schooling with 3 public systems (Andorran, French, Spanish) and 2 private options. Schooling is from age 6-16.
[74]
Departament d'escola andorrana, formació ... - Govern d'Andorra
Escola Andorrana. Maternal i 1a enseyança. Tel +376 852 344. Encamp. Escola Andorrana. Maternal i 1a enseyança. Tel +376 832 716. Pas de la Casa. Escola ...Missing: escoles | Show results with:escoles
[75]
Escuela Española de la Vall d'Orient
El pasado día 5 de febrero, celebramos el carnaval realizando un desfile por las calles de Encamp, junto al resto de escuelas. El desfile ac... 5 de febrero de ...
[76]
Bienvenue sur le site de l'école Primaire française d'Encamp
Ecole Primaire Française Encamp. Activités · Accueil · L'équipe éducative · Informations Pratiques · Contact · Les sorties · Documents importants.Missing: Andorra | Show results with:Andorra
[77]
Best Universities for Programs in Andorra 2026 - Educations.com
Best Universities for Programs in Andorra 2026 ; Vatel Andorra · Encamp, Andorra ; Andorra Aviation Academy · Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra ; La Salle Open University.
[78]
Andorra Education System - Scholaro
Within this complicated structure education following the Spanish curriculum is compulsory through to age 16. Primary schooling accounts for 6 years of the 12 ...
[79]
Dades curs escolar 2013-2014 - RTVA
... alumnes, i l´Escola Andorrana de segona ensenyança d´Encamp, que té 485 escolars. Entre els centres menys ocupats destaquen les escoles espanyoles d´Encamp ...
[80]
What Are Schools Like in Andorra?
Andorra has four education systems: three public (Andorran, Spanish, French) and private. Education is free, compulsory 6-16, and uses Catalan, Spanish, ...
[81]
Council of Europe delegation visited Andorra to learn about the ...
Nov 21, 2018 · A delegation from the Council of Europe Education Department visited Andorra on 5-6 November to learn about the results of the ...
[82]
Presentation of the project "Competences for Democratic Culture"
Andorran school puts competences for democratic culture into practice. The Encamp Andorran school (Escola andorrana d'Encamp) visited the Council of Europe on ...Missing: Andorra | Show results with:Andorra
[83]
Verònica Canals i Riba - Wikidata
instance of · human ; sex or gender · female ; given name · Verònica ; date of birth. 29 October 1970 ; place of birth · Encamp.
[84]
Verònica Canals i Riba Age, Birthday, Zodiac Sign and Birth Chart
Verònica Canals i Riba is an Andorran businesswoman and politician born on October 29, 1970, in Encamp. She served as the Minister of Tourism from May 21, ...
[85]
Alex Abella Garcia (Andorra) - Basketball Stats, Height, Age
Explore the career and performances of Alex Abella Garcia. Access all stats, latest news, photos, videos and achievements.
[86]
List of Andorrans - Wikipedia
Josep Carles Laínez (born 1970), writer and journalist; lives in Encamp; writes for the newspaper El Periòdic d'Andorra ; Juli Minoves Triquell (born 1969), ...