Historic parliamentary building completes first phase of upgrades, blending accessibility, sustainability,

The Casa de la Vall, Andorra's historic parliamentary building, has completed the first phase of its modernisation works and reopened on Monday for the traditional Sant Tomàs session, with public access starting December 23 and running through Constitution Day on March 14.

Launched in April after the last major overhaul in 1962, the project—led by architect Enric Dilmé and restoration supervisor Eudald Guillamet—emphasised updating the structure for contemporary institutional needs without altering its core. Key improvements include a new lift and ramp for accessibility, underfloor heating, renewed electrical systems, fibre optic connectivity, 4K cameras, advanced microphones, and enhanced acoustics, all concealed to reduce visual clutter. Sustainability upgrades addressed heat loss through better windows and insulation.

Restorers stripped away mismatched 20th-century additions like 1960s saddles, radiators, and 'gotelé' plaster, replacing them with oak flooring, lime mortar walls, and subtle lighting that highlights heritage items. The ground floor features a relocated reception, expanded shop, and displays of Andorra's first official flag and a restored archive chest. In the Passos Perduts hall, parquet overlays the original, transparent lamp shades replace yellowed ones, and facsimiles of the Pareatges and Constitution now hang where a 1970s clock and 1960s shield once stood. Síndic General Carles Ensenyat noted these changes underscore foundational documents of Andorra's statehood and democracy. His office displays a newly loaned Joaquim Mir painting depicting the 1933 revolution.

The hemicycle saw the biggest transformation, regaining original symmetry with seating for 14 national and 14 territorial councillors, plus space for 12 ministers and the head of government. Ensenyat said the layout "makes Andorra's political structure immediately clear" and supports events like oaths and Sant Tomàs councils, with the new blue executive table replacing 1980s provisionals to reflect a national government. The space can now serve as a reserve parliamentary chamber.

Pending works include second-floor musealisation on Andorra's political history, exterior restoration (roof, joinery, stone cleaning) targeted for late 2026, and future roof access improvements. Free open days run until Constitution Day, after which residents enter gratis and tourists pay €5. Some areas, like the Corts tribunal, remain closed.