For 715 years, from 1278 to 1993, Andorrans lived under a unique co-principality, ruled by French and Spanish leaders (from 1607 onward, the French chief of state and the Spanish bishop of Urgel). In 1993, this feudal system was modified with the titular heads of state retained, but the government transformed into a parliamentary democracy. Long isolated and impoverished, mountainous Andorra achieved considerable prosperity since World War II through its tourist industry. Many immigrants (legal and illegal) are attracted to the thriving economy with its lack of income taxes.
Location
Southwestern Europe, between France and Spain
Area Comparative
2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Maritime Claims
none (landlocked)
Climate
Temperate; snowy, cold winters and warm, dry summers
Natural Hazards
Avalanches
Environment Current Issues
Deforestation; overgrazing of mountain meadows contributes to soil erosion; air pollution; wastewater treatment and solid waste disposal
Environment International Agreements
Party to: Biodiversity, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Geography Note
Landlocked; straddles a number of important crossroads in the Pyrenees
