Andorra's Oldest Association Celebrates 250 Years Since 1776 Founding

The Consòrcia de Casats d'Andorra la Vella, recognised as Andorra's oldest association, marks its 250th anniversary this year, having endured since its founding in 1776 despite profound societal shifts.

Ton Armengol, the current cònsol, highlighted the group's longevity during a recent gathering with second cònsol Xavier Altimir and secretary Jordi Sansa. He noted that the entity predates the United States' declaration of independence on 4 July 1776. Records from the consòrcia's account book confirm its origins on 21 February 1776, the first day of Lent following Carnival festivities. Married men from Andorra la Vella then resolved to form the group the following year, initially to organise Carnival celebrations, pay musicians and impose some order amid the revelry.

Historically, such brotherhoods existed across Andorra's parishes, though most faded by the 19th century amid social changes. The capital's consòrcia, however, adapted. It elected officers mirroring local society in humorous fashion—cònsols, secretary, legal advisor, wine provider, taster—while providing mutual aid. Members supported ill or deceased brothers' families, vital in an era when a farm household depended on its head.

As Andorra modernised in the 20th century, the welfare role diminished, with the state now handling such needs, Altimir explained. Yet the spirit persists symbolically. Sansa added that members would still assist any brother in genuine need.

Core traditions endure through two annual meetings: the Consell del Bull, signalling Carnival's start with a gathering at Casa de la Vall, and the Dimecres de Cendra event on Ash Wednesday. The latter begins with a 1:15pm mass at Sant Esteve church's small chapel, followed by a group photo on Casa de la Vall steps and lunch at the congress centre's Consòrcia room. This year's menu upholds Lenten customs with conger eel escudella, cod with endive and possibly conger in vinaigrette; a cake may commemorate the milestone.

Membership requires being a married Andorran man resident in Andorra la Vella, sponsored by two members and vetted via playful questions about character and tastes. New entrants serve as "manador de vius" (summoning the living for meetings) or "manador de morts" (coordinating funeral support, such as pallbearing).

With around 200 members—half active—and 50 expected for this year's events, the group sees a bright future. Younger generations, often joining via family ties, ensure continuity for at least the next 25 years. Armengol, Altimir and Sansa described the gatherings as vital social reunions in a fast-changing nation. "These events let us all come together at least once a year, which isn't always easy even in a small country," they said.