Sant Roma de les Bons
Encamp
Sant Romà de les Bons is a historic church located in Les Bons, Encamp, Andorra, renowned for its Romanesque and Lombard architectural styles. Consecrated on January 23, 1164, the church exhibits a rectangular layout with a gable bell tower and a roof covered by llicorella slabs. In the 16th century, the church underwent a Gothic repainting, which included the addition of a porch and alterations to the doors and windows reflecting 16th–17th century architectural styles. The original murals, now preserved as fragments in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, have been carefully replicated within the church. Restoration efforts have been ongoing since the 1970s, with significant contributions from the Andorran National Artistic Heritage Restoration Service, the Paul Getty Foundation, and the Courtauld Institute of Art. Registered as a cultural heritage property of Andorra since 2003, Sant Romà de les Bons stands as a testament to medieval ecclesiastical art and architecture in the region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Sant Romà de les Bons is during the warmer months when the weather is pleasant for exploring Encamp. Visitors are encouraged to check opening hours in advance and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the church's historical and artistic significance. Pre-booking tickets or tours may be beneficial during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, so inquire locally.
Interesting facts
- •The original murals of Sant Romà de les Bons are preserved as two large fragments in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
- •The church's roof is made of llicorella slabs, a traditional material used in the region.
- •Restoration efforts involved international cooperation including the Paul Getty Foundation and the Courtauld Institute of Art.
- •The church entrance is located on the west wall due to terrain limitations preventing access from the south.
History
The church was first documented in 1162 through a concordat and was consecrated in 1164, dedicated to Romanus of Caesarea.
Over the centuries, it underwent significant changes, including a Gothic repainting in the 16th century and architectural modifications to its doors and windows in the 16th–17th centuries.
The original murals were removed in the early 20th century and are now housed in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
Extensive restoration work has taken place since the 1970s to preserve its original decorations, culminating in its designation as a cultural heritage site in 2003.
Place Guide
Bell Tower12th century
A distinctive gable bell tower that crowns the church, characteristic of Romanesque architecture, offering insight into medieval ecclesiastical design.
Murals Reproduction12th century originals, 20th century reproductions
Replicas of the original 12th-century murals adorn the interior, as the originals are preserved in Barcelona's Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
Porch Addition16th–17th century
A porch was added to the church in the 16th–17th century, reflecting Gothic stylistic influences during the period of repainting and architectural modification.
Contact
Phone: 731 000
