Andorra Pushes for Better Access to Historical Documents in Bishopric Archives

Andorra's Culture Ministry is pressing ahead with negotiations to secure better access to historical documents about the Principality held in the Bishopric of Urgell's La Seu d'Urgell archives, where access remains restricted to records over 100 years old. Culture Minister Mònica Bonell confirmed at a recent press conference that talks, ongoing since the start of the legislative term, are paused due to a leadership transition, as the new bishop and co-prince reviews outstanding dossiers.

Bonell described the discussions as constructive but complex, calling for patience to allow time for study and decisions. "We are in conversations and will continue to advance as swiftly as possible," she said, highlighting an existing agreement with Spain for digital copies while efforts with the Bishopric lag. Isabel de la Parte, director of the Cultural Heritage department, stressed that officials "will not stop insisting" and aim to obtain digital versions to aid conservation and local access. She noted the archivistic oddity of the setup, as the private Bishopric holds documents central to Andorra's history: "The archives are ours because they speak of us." Lídia Arbués, head of the Archives and Document Management area, pointed out that access to private archives varies widely and is not unique to church institutions.

The ministry presented its archives and documentary heritage bill at the event, which updates 2003 cultural heritage rules to cover documents through their full lifecycle and establish a national archives system including government, parish, and General Council archives, with options to incorporate others. Public documents include those from public bodies over 30 years old or of permanent value; private ones cover items over 100 years old, declared cultural assets, inventoried collections, or records from key entities over 30 years old.

The government gains acquisition priority for private holdings, provides maintenance support, and bans their dismemberment. Public record management demands professional standards, qualified staff, suitable facilities, authenticity protections, interoperability, and proper transfers during administrative changes. Central administration must use unified systems, with oversight for outsourced services to retain public ownership.

De la Parte described a "paradigm shift" spurred by digital demands, including a shared online portal for public access and incentives like subsidies and collaborative spaces to encourage private owners to preserve family and patrimonial records. Bonell said many public institutions already comply, with the bill shaped by consultations with local archivists who responded positively. Arbués emphasized balancing responsibilities with ministry aid, such as annual grants and optional deposits in public archives for cost-burdened private holders.

The government has since approved the bill, which will enter parliamentary process in coming days. Negotiations with the Bishopric continue without a defined collaboration format, such as a formal agreement.