Constitution Day in Andorra

A referendum and a new constitutional order

On 14 March 1993, the Andorran people approved the first written Constitution in a referendum. The Constitution took effect on that same date, beginning a new stage in the country’s contemporary history.[1][2]

The Constitution defines Andorra as an independent, democratic and social state under the rule of law, and places sovereignty in the Andorran people. It also retains the parliamentary co-principality: the Bishop of Urgell and the President of France remain joint heads of state, with powers derived from the Constitution. The change therefore established a constitutional framework for Andorra’s institutions without abolishing the co-princes.[2][3]

How the day is marked

The Law on the Declaration of Constitution Day, adopted in 1998, establishes 14 March as Constitution Day each year. It says state institutions are to mark the day with solemnity and public events. The law describes the date as one already celebrated by the people and institutions since the 1993 referendum.[1]

The law does not prescribe a particular ceremony, meal or custom for households. It requires state institutions to mark the day with solemnity and public events.[1]

A paid public holiday, with sector-specific rules

The holiday law makes Constitution Day a compulsory paid holiday and allows exceptions for services directly connected with tourism. Government labour-calendar guidance describes national holidays as paid and non-recoverable for sectors including construction, industry, offices, banks, hairdressers, transport and goods distribution, and services not directly connected with tourism. Tourism-related employees receive the same number of holidays, though other holidays may be moved by agreement. Constitution Day is one of four holidays in that sector that cannot be moved; if an employee must work, the employer must provide a replacement holiday and an additional paid day off.[1][4]

The date remains 14 March when it falls on a weekend; the official law does not set a general Monday substitute. The Government’s commercial-hours guidance lists 14 March as a compulsory retail-closure day, with exceptions: tourism shops may open, and the Government may suspend the closure requirement when the date falls on a weekend, another holiday or a period of expected tourist demand. Permission to open does not require every shop to do so.[5]

What visitors should expect

For offices, banks and transport, the labour calendar establishes holiday entitlement for the listed sectors but does not set opening hours or service timetables. Check the relevant provider’s schedule before making plans. For shopping, check current Government notices and individual store hours, since the retail closure can be suspended and opening remains a choice for each business.[4][5]