.png?sfvrsn=c322cb1a_1 "The intangible value of agropastoralism in the cultural identity of Andorra")
In the Principality of Andorra, cattle fairs are recognized in the General Inventory of Cultural Heritage as “Intangible Assets”. While these fairs were once an important part of famers’ annual work schedules, they now have a predominantly symbolic relevance and are perceived by contemporary society as festive celebrations, including by the youngest generations.
Today, the annual Andorra la Vella Cattle Fair & Competition is living proof of the importance of agriculture and livestock as part of the cultural heritage and identity of Andorra.
In the past, the exchange of products and livestock was essential to the economy of a landlocked mountainous country like Andorra, where the average altitude is 2 000 metres above the sea level and the winters are long and harsh. Livestock fairs were key for farmers, as they provided an opportunity to sell animals and make some profit.
Historical documents show that as early as 1402, the episcopal Co-prince granted the people of Andorra the privilege of having an annual fair for St. Matthew, and in 1448, Gaston IV, Count of Foix, and Bishop Arnau Roger granted a license to hold an annual fair in Andorra la Vella on the Monday and Tuesday after Easter, at the request of Andorrans. The fair evolved over time, and the date and place of the celebration changed depending on the needs and possibilities of each historical moment. In 1885, a plea from the Municipality of Andorra la Vella to the General Council resulted in changing the date to 27 October, as it was the most convenient date for traders.
After a few years of interruption, it was held again on 27 October 1979. Since then, the fair has been organized every year by the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Association of Farmers and Cattlemen of the Principality of Andorra. In 2010, it was listed as a “Festival of Cultural Interest”. The historical tradition, the cultural significance of the activity, and the participation of citizens in the Andorra la Vella Cattle Fair & Competition are the main values that have made the fair an intangible asset of the General Inventory of Andorran Cultural Heritage.
618c6e95-9875-4238-96ed-22e70700b9dd.jpg?sfvrsn=fbc6c90_1 "The intangible value of agropastoralism in the cultural identity of Andorra")
4fb929ab-77a8-4499-ad6a-de654fd806f6.jpg?sfvrsn=856781f4_1 "The intangible value of agropastoralism in the cultural identity of Andorra")
The highly-anticipated annual Andorra la Vella Cattle Fair & Competition represents an opportunity to appreciate the efforts of the country’s farms to produce quality products. The 2022 edition took place on 27 October. During the fair, the country’s livestock farms exhibit their animals. The farmers have the opportunity to take part in a national competition that includes up to 32 sections, with prizes for the best specimens of cattle, horse and sheep, depending on the breed, age and type of breeding.
Although the economic importance of the agro-livestock sector in Andorra today is considerably less than it once was, cattle fairs now serve a different purpose. They allow the people of Andorra and beyond to rediscover and connect with the farm animals and the country’s agropastoral heritage. The festive connotation has given cattle fairs a new meaning and life, and they will continue being organized for many years to come.
