Located in the center of Andorra la Vella, the General Council building is a vital hub for Principality parliamentary activity. This building serves as the modern seat of Andorra’s legislature, representing the nation’s development, resiliency, and cultural legacy. Since the new General Council building replaces the old Casa de la Vall as the main venue for parliamentary activities, it is evidence of Andorra’s commitment to respecting its rich past while modernizing to meet contemporary needs.

The decision to build a new parliamentary headquarters resulted from the need for expanded facilities. The Casa de la Vall, despite its great legacy, was not sufficiently large to meet the growing needs of legislative activities. The new building, spanning 16,000 square meters, is designed not only for General Council activities but also as a venue to promote civic involvement and cultural expression. With its multiple levels and open spaces, it combines accessibility, communal value, and functionality.

From an architectural standpoint, the building combines practicality with symbolism. Serving as a guide for Andorran political and cultural identity, its design reflects the country’s spirit. The modern style and durability of the structure underscore its importance as a cornerstone of national administration. Apart from its parliamentary use, the General Council building provides a versatile venue for exhibitions, cultural activities, and important social gatherings. Events like the Prime Minister’s Christmas message and the Constitution Day speech are hosted in its grand hall.

Situated in Andorra la Vella, near the administrative headquarters of the Andorran government and adjacent to the old Casa de la Vall, the General Council building bridges the old and the new, reflecting the Principality’s evolving needs and the continuity of government. While the Casa de la Vall continues to host traditional events like the constitutive session and the Sant Tomàs session on December 21, most parliamentary sessions now occur in the new building, preserving the nation’s heritage.

The concept of a new headquarters for the General Council dates back to Andorra’s first constitutional legislature in 1996. A commission was established to address the limitations of the Casa de la Vall and propose a modern successor. By 2001, agreements between the government, the General Council, and the Municipality of Andorra la Vella finalized the building plans. Excavation began in 2004, costing 3.7 million euros. Subsequent phases included architectural installations in 2008 for 17 million euros and the main construction in 2007 for 6.4 million euros. The 26-million-euro construction project was completed in 2014, with the co-prince François Hollande and Joan-Enric Vives formally opening the structure.

From an architectural perspective, the General Council building is a marvel. Standing 30 meters tall, it accommodates up to 42 councilors, as mandated by the Constitution. Construction required the excavation of 40,000 cubic meters of rock and the development of a 1,300-square-meter plaza. The building comprises two main sections: the street-level floor houses offices for the Ombudsman, Deputy Ombudsman, the Secretary General, and various administrative departments. Below the plaza are the council chamber, parliamentary group offices, committee rooms, a press area, and a library, along with 65 parking spots for staff and visitors.

In addition to its legislative roles, the General Council building hosts three important entities: the Data Protection Agency, the Court of Auditors, and the Citizens’ Ombudsman. Access to these institutions is via a separate entrance, emphasizing the building’s role as a multifunctional government center.

While respecting the customs and values that have shaped Andorra, the General Council embodies the essence of a modern parliament. Its dual purpose as a legislative center and a cultural venue underscores its role in fostering civic participation and honoring national identity. At the intersection of modern innovation and historical legacy, this architectural landmark continues to inspire and support the Principality’s growth.