Andorra la Vella's Twinning Boat Gift Falls into Disrepair

The llagut of Sant Pol de Mar, a symbolic gift marking Andorra la Vella's twinning with the Catalan town, has fallen into visible disrepair on Avinguda Tarragona.

Since its installation in January 2015, the three-metre fibreglass boat—painted white and blue—has shown persistent neglect. Paint flakes cover the mast, antenna and hull, while layers of accumulated leaves and debris clutter the deck, untouched for several seasons. The sight is particularly stark for pedestrians, though less obvious to passing drivers.

The vessel, donated by Sant Pol de Mar and never intended for actual navigation on the Valira river, serves as urban furniture with artistic value. Yet it has languished in a forlorn corner of the avenue. Upon arrival, the previous local council struggled to find a suitable spot, leaving it hidden in a car park for months before placing it there.

A rushed refurbishment occurred in 2018, but deterioration has returned. The current Comú de Andorra la Vella has no plans to intervene, despite calls to maintain its dignity as a twinning emblem.

Critics argue that basic upkeep—such as cleaning and repainting—would suffice, without restoring full seaworthiness. They also suggest relocating it to a more prominent position to escape its current obscurity.