Located near the Padern peak at a prominent elevation of 1861 meters, the Church of Sant Romà dels Vilars is among Andorra’s most ancient and historically important religious buildings. Originating in the 10th century, this pre-Romanesque chapel, located in Els Vilars d’Engordany within the parish of Les Escaldes-Engordany, is an amazing example of unembellished rural architecture that has stood through the years.

Like pre-Romanesque architecture, Sant Romà dels Vilars reflects a great simplicity and utility. The building has a single rectangular nave that ends in a quadrangular apse eastward, defined from the main nave by a presbytery arch. Though simple, this layout emphasizes the church’s vital function as a small haven for the neighborhood. The uneven terrain to the west offered an opportunity for a unique architectural feature—a two-story extension. This improvement consists in a sheltered portico on the lower level and a choir space above that harmonically interacts with the main architectural plan of the church.

Its natural rustic appeal is enhanced by the choice of building materials and methods. Built from uneven limestone and slate blocks, the walls show a horizontal arrangement that emphasizes the church’s strength. Rising to cover the apse, the gabled roof creates a cohesive construction reminiscent of the architectural trends of the day. One especially noteworthy feature is the small bell tower on the western wall. With a single entrance and a domed semicircular roof hewn from coarse stone, the bell tower gives the otherwise austere architecture a distinctiveness.

The simple square doorway on the southern façade of the church highlights its understated architectural style. Inside, the nave’s floor shows a small slope that falls about 55 centimeters. This unique quality accentuates the rustic appeal of the church and reflects the inventiveness of its builders, who deftly matched the design to the local topography.

Architecturally unique as well as a major cultural asset is the Church of Sant Romà dels Vilars. An artifact of its historical story, an altarpiece first housed in this chapel is now housed in the parish church of Sant Pere Màrtir. This relationship emphasizes the ongoing relevance of Sant Romà dels Vilars within the Andorran religious and cultural scene.

Being among the most ancient churches in the principality, Sant Romà dels Vilars offers guests a perceptive view of the fundamental architectural and spiritual traditions of the area. The tenacity and inventiveness of the societies that produced the basic but enduring design are evident. Grounded in practicality and a smooth integration with their natural surroundings, the modest design is a great tribute to the simplicity and dedication of Andorra’s early residents.

Nowadays, the Church of Sant Romà dels Vilars is a revered emblem of pre-Romanesque legacy from Andorra. The calm surroundings and simple architecture provide a unique opportunity for reflection and appreciation of the historical and cultural richness of the region. This small but important chapel offers an everlasting link to history and still represents the core of a former age.