Andorra's Ancient Christmas: Pagan Tió Log Over Santa and Kings

Historian David Mas has highlighted the central role of the *tió*—a pagan log tradition—in Andorra's historic Christmas celebrations, long before Santa Claus, the Three Kings, or nativity scenes became widespread.

In a deeply Christian country like Andorra, Mas notes, the *tió* dominated festivities. "Here, there was no Father Christmas or Three Kings: it was the *tió*," he explains. The ritual centred on the fireplace, where children closed their eyes and recited a *Pater Noster* or *Ave Maria*. Adults would then hide small gifts or scarce imported fruits like oranges and mandarins under a blanket. Mas emphasises its pagan roots: "We're not talking about the baby Jesus, but a log representing nature."

Gift-giving on Three Kings Day, a custom prevalent in neighbouring countries, likely arrived in Andorra during the 20th century through Catalan immigration, according to Mas. Nativity scenes (*pessebres*) were equally uncommon in homes. While affluent households like Casa Rossell in Ordino preserved some figures—discovered alongside Cultural Heritage experts—they were not the norm. "The peasants' world was very pragmatic back then," Mas observes.

Another key tradition was the Midnight Mass (*missa del Gall*), which carried a strong communal spirit. In Sant Julià de Lòria, attendees fashioned whistles from bark to mimic rooster calls during the service. Celebrations continued afterward with mulled wine or hot chocolate outside the church.

Harsh winters kept Andorrans indoors for extended periods, especially in higher parishes where heavy snowfalls were common. Gathered by the fire, families shared stories and legends, fostering Andorra's rich oral literature and folklore.