Andorra Territorial Structure: The 7 Parishes (Parròquies)

Andorra’s territorial structure based on Articles 79–84 of its Constitution.

Andorra is divided into 7 parishes (parròquies), each governed by a Local Council (Comú). This structure reflects a blend of self-government, tradition, and constitutional law.

List of the 7 parishes of Andorra

The 7 parishes of Andorra are:

  1. Andorra la Vella (the capital)
  2. Escaldes-Engordany
  3. Encamp
  4. Canillo
  5. Ordino
  6. La Massana
  7. Sant Julià de Lòria

1. Local Councils (Article 79)

  • Represent and administer the parishes.
  • Are public corporations with legal status.
  • Possess local regulatory powers through ordinances, regulations, and decrees.
  • Function under self-government, recognized and guaranteed by the Constitution.
  • Responsibilities include:
    • Representing parish interests.
    • Approving and executing the communal budget.
    • Managing parish property (communal, public, patrimonial, or private).
  • Members of ruling organs are democratically elected.

2. Powers of Local Councils (Article 80)

They enjoy administrative and financial autonomy, with powers defined by a Qualified Law, covering:

  • Population census & electoral rolls.
  • Local consultations (referenda).
  • Regulation of commerce, industry, and professional activities.
  • Territorial delimitation of the parish.
  • Management of communal property and natural resources.
  • Maintenance of the cadastral register.
  • Local planning & zoning.
  • Administration of public roads.
  • Promotion of culture, sports, and social activities.
  • Oversight of communal public services.

🔹 Councils may also levy local taxes and fees on natural resource use, communal services, administrative licenses, and real estate.

3. Financial Support (Article 81)

  • To ensure economic capacity, Local Councils receive transfers from the General Budget.
  • Distribution is twofold:
    • A fixed equal share for each parish.
    • A proportional share based on population, territory size, and other indicators.

4. Jurisdiction & Conflicts (Article 82)

  • Conflicts between the State and Local Councils are settled by the Constitutional Court.
  • Local Council acts are directly enforceable, but appeals can be lodged to check their legality.

5. Legislative Role (Article 83)

  • Local Councils can:
    • Introduce legislation (legislative initiative).
    • Challenge laws by lodging appeals of unconstitutionality.

6. Districts & Neighborhoods (Article 84)

  • Laws must respect customs and traditions when defining the jurisdiction of districts and neighborhoods, and their relationship with Local Councils.

Andorra’s territorial system is unique:

  • It ensures local autonomy for each parish.
  • Balances tradition with modern governance.
  • Guarantees financial equity among parishes.
  • Provides a legal framework for resolving conflicts and encouraging local legislative participation.
Andorra Territorial Structure: The 7 Parishes (Parròquies)
Map of The 7 Parishes (Parròquies) of Andorra

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