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Our Lady of Meritxell Day

Honor Our Lady of Meritxell Day with a day of prayer and reflection, celebrating the patron saint of Andorra.

Tuesday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 8

OBSERVED INAndorra

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYChristian

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate Our Lady of Meritxell Day on September 8, a special day dedicated to the patron saint of Andorra. This holiday honors the miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary that was found in the village of Meritxell in the 12th century. Legend has it that she appeared to a shepherd and instructed him to build a chapel in her honor. Today, this small village has become an important pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the world. On this day, people come together to pay their respects and show their devotion to Our Lady of Meritxell. So why not join in on the festivities and discover the rich history behind this beloved figure?

TIMELINE

Our Lady of Meritxell Day Timeline

Discovery of the Statue

The original statue of Our Lady of Meritxell was discovered by a shepherd in a wild rose bush. This marked the beginning of the veneration of Our Lady of Meritxell.

Our Lady of Meritxell Patron Saint

The General Council of the Valleys declared Our Lady of Meritxell the patron saint of Andorra.

Sanctuary Reconstruction

After a fire in 1972 that destroyed the original sanctuary, a new sanctuary designed by Catalan architect Ricard Bofill was constructed to honor Our Lady of Meritxell.

Canonization of the Image

On September 8, 1995, the image of Our Lady of Meritxell was canonically crowned by the Archbishop of Urgell, Joan Martí Alanis, on behalf of Pope John Paul II.

Our Lady of Meritxell Day Celebrations

Every year on September 8, Andorrans celebrate Our Lady of Meritxell Day with a national holiday, religious processions, and festive activities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Our Lady of Meritxell Day

Attend a traditional Mass

Celebrate the religious aspect of Our Lady of Meritxell Day by attending a traditional Mass. This is a great way to honor and show your devotion to the Patroness of Andorra.

HOST

Host a feast in her honor

Gather friends and family together and host a feast in honor of Our Lady of Meritxell. Prepare traditional Andorran dishes and share stories about the history and significance of this special day.

VISIT

Visit a shrine or pilgrimage site

Take a trip to a local shrine or pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of Meritxell. This is a great opportunity for reflection, prayer, and paying homage to the patron saint of Andorra.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a cultural festival

Many towns and cities in Andorra hold festivals and events to celebrate Our Lady of Meritxell Day. Join in the festivities, try traditional foods and drinks, and immerse yourself in Andorran culture.

DONATE

Donate to a charitable cause

In the spirit of giving and honoring Our Lady of Meritxell, consider making a donation to a charitable cause that supports the people of Andorra. This is a great way to spread kindness and celebrate the values of this special day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Our Lady of Meritxell Day is Important

Honors the history and traditions of Andorra

Our Lady of Meritxell Day is deeply rooted in the history and traditions of Andorra. It's a day that celebrates the country's heritage and values, preserving them for future generations to come. By recognizing and commemorating this holiday, Andorrans pay homage to their culture and keep it alive.

Celebrates the patron saint of Andorra

Our Lady of Meritxell is not only an important religious figure in Andorra, but she is also recognized as the country's official patron saint. Celebrating her day is a way to honor and pay tribute to this beloved figure who holds significant cultural and historical importance in Andorra.

Brings the community together

Our Lady of Meritxell Day is a national holiday in Andorra, which means it's a time when families and friends gather to celebrate together. It's a day of joy, unity, and connection with loved ones, which makes it an important event for strengthening community ties.