Ordino Residents Bless Livestock in Annual Ceremony as Herds Descend

Ordino residents gathered on Wednesday for the annual livestock blessing at Planell de la Rabassa, where around 200 animals moved from high pastures in the Arcalís valley to meadows in the Rialb valley.

The ceremony attracted about 100 participants, including locals, farmers, officials and visitors from across Andorra, such as General Subsindica Sandra Codina. Mossèn Fenosa led the blessing at 1 p.m., marking the midpoint of the summer grazing period. The herd included roughly 120 breeding cows with calves and 40 horses with foals, aided by stronger pastures following early August rains and storms.

Deputy Consul Eduard Betriu noted the custom's relatively recent origins in the 1960s and 1970s, tied to a new parish priest and a move to shared grazing lands. He highlighted its value in linking the livestock sector with church practices at the distinctive location.

The event coincided with the Day of Shepherds on 12 August. Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Guillem Casal reported an increase of about 100 cattle at the site this year over previous seasons. He underscored the primary sector's growth, its importance for ecosystem and biodiversity protection near the forthcoming national natural park, and the demands of severe weather and rugged land.

Casal pointed out how such gatherings reinforce public support for farmers, reflect the sector's strength—including generational renewal—and open prospects for mountain tourism via premium local meat and produce. He mentioned agriculture and livestock budgets have climbed more than 40% this term, alongside policy updates to support the field.

An El Periòdic editorial described the half-century-old tradition as vital for sustaining Andorra's landscapes and natural surroundings amid territorial challenges and climate pressures. It welcomed the larger herd as encouraging but called for sustained efforts beyond event-day advocacy, including stable conditions for farm continuity and addressing generational handover.

The day concluded with a shared lunch arranged by Ordino council.